This year marks a milestone worth celebrating: 20 years of Run For The Water—and 20 years of each step in a road race leading to clean water.
For two decades, this race has brought Austin together for something bigger than the finish line. This community has turned miles into meaningful impact for clean water projects in Burundi—one step at a time.
At the Gazelle Foundation, the connection is simple: Run For The Water funds the construction of clean water systems in Burundi. One Race. A Lifetime of Change.
Why It Matters
In many communities in Burundi, accessing water can mean walking miles each day.
The systems funded through Run For The Water change that, bringing water closer to home, improving health, and strengthening communities for the long term.
As co-founder Gilbert Tuhabonye says:
Every step up a hill here shortens the walk for someone in Burundi—from four miles to just 400 meters.
That’s the outcome.
The Role of the Race
Run For The Water exists to make this work possible.
Each year, participation translates directly into funding—funding that builds water systems and reaches more people.
The pattern is clear: when more people show up, more people gain access to clean water.
20 Years—and What’s Next
Every runner, walker, volunteer, donor, sponsor, and supporter has helped carry this mission forward.
Want to see how it all started? Learn more about the history of Run For The Water.
Those efforts have created a legacy, generations of families with access to clean water, stronger communities, and new opportunities made possible because a basic need is met.
Today, we’re proud to reveal the 20th anniversary Run For The Water logo, honoring 20 years of miles that matter.
This year’s race is more than another starting line. It’s a celebration of the community that has made Run for the Water an Austin tradition—and a recommitment to the work still ahead.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this milestone celebration. Join us for the 20th Anniversary Run For The Water.
The Race Experience
The Run For The Water course winds through some of Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods—from downtown to Tarrytown, through rolling hills and into a fast, flat finish.
Whether you’re running your first 5K or challenging yourself in the 10-miler, this is a race designed for every level—and every reason for showing up.
For those taking on the 10-mile course, the Hill Challenge adds something extra: a 600-meter segment that celebrates strength, joy, and determination. No extra sign-up—just run.
And at the heart of it all is a simple truth:
Every step up a hill here shortens the walk for someone in Burundi—from four miles to just 400 meters.
Race Details & How to Get Involved
However you want to show up, there’s a place for you at Run For The Water:
5K – a great entry point for all levels
10-Miler – a challenging, rewarding course through Austin
Kids K – a fun way to get the next generation involved
Race Day: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Location: Downtown, Austin, Texas
Not in Austin? You can still be part of it:
Global Run – participate from anywhere and join the movement wherever you are.
However you take part, your involvement directly supports clean water systems in Burundi.
Register yourself. Invite your friends. Start a team.
For sign-up details, course maps, sponsorship, and more, visit the race website.
This is more than a race.
It’s 20 years of impact—and what comes next.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of it.
