As the sun rose over Austin’s First Street Bridge this past Sunday, thousands of runners gathered for the 19th annual Run For The Water. What began as a race became something much bigger — a powerful moment of community, shared purpose, and joy.
New This Year at Run For The Water
We added extra surprises this year to keep the race evolving and excitement levels high.
The Shakeout Run, held the day ahead of the race, invited runners to a last training run at Karavel Shoes with a supportedrun was followed up by early access to packet pickup, vendors, giveways, cheer sign making, temporary tattoos and nail decorating, breakfast tacos, baked goods and fruit.
Meditation set the mood for the race. The Hill Challenge powered by lululemon kicked off at a picturesque portions of the race course on Scenic Drive. Lululemon cheered runners on as they climbed the hill with the larger race’s purpose in mind. Earlier in the fall, runners could enter themselves for a chance to win lululemon shorts!
Elsewhere on the course, runners were cheered on by West Austin Youth Association (WAYA and samples at the Noog’s Power Zone.
At the finish line festival, Presented by Keller Williams the community tailgate, team zone, Winners Circle and samples y many of our amazing Partners. Activities for the entire family. With face painting, puzzles, selfie stations, scale model of typical water system and more.
Performances by Burundian Drummers were a highlight, and remind us of Burundi’s joyful culture!
The Path Of Your Donation
Each race entry provides clean water for life to one person in Burundi. Thanks to the Gazelle Foundation’s on-the-ground project management, these donations are transformed into sustainable water systems that capture spring water before contamination and use gravity to deliver it to the communities who need it most.
The result: a journey for water that once stretched four miles now measures just 400 meters.
Partnering For a Cause
Our race partners ensured the 19th annual race was one for the record books. We hope you will consider working with them this year and send your thanks for their support of our event throughout the year.
Partnership opportunities for 2026 are now available if you’d like to get in on the ground floor.
Grateful for Our Volunteers
Our 125 volunteers staffed packet pickup, information tables, the Finish Line festival, and all the water stops along the course.
A Race For The Whole Family
Every race registration makes a difference that’s why we encourage everyone to make the race an annual tradition. Early bird registration for 2026 event is already open, sign up now and lock in Sunday, November 8, 2026.
Whether you’re ready to take on a 5K or looking to tackle a longer distance, our 10-miler is for you. Our Kids K is a great way to introduce children to the joy of running for a cause, complete with capes!
As a race built by runners for runners, Run For The Water is for the whole family, from beginner to elite runners. Read about the race’s history.
Keeping Clean Water Running In Burundi
Thanks to you, Run For The Water, is a testament to what’s possible when people come together with heart and intention. We’re honored by the vision of Gilbert Tuhabonye, the leadership of Gazelle Foundation board and staff, and every volunteer, partner, and runner who helped make this year’s race a true movement for change.
Kids K presented by Austin Ear Nose & Throat Clinic is always a highpoint.