RUN FOR THE WATER

One Race. A Lifetime of Change. For 20 years running, the Gazelle Foundation has thrown the best race in town. Each November, over 5,000 runners and walkers take to the streets of downtown Austin for the annual Run For The Water 5K, 10-Miler, and Kids K through our beautiful West Austin course. 

The race benefits the Gazelle Foundation, dedicated to providing clean water to the people of Burundi. Clean water provides a path out of poverty, bringing access to better health, stronger communities, jobs, education, and most of all: hope. For those who prefer to participate in a virtual event, our Global Run is available.

2026 Race Date: November 8, 2026

20th Anniversary Event

5K & 10-miler | 7 am

Kids K | 9:15 am

Race registration is OPEN

The Course

Experience the best of Austin running. From downtown to Tarrytown and from the hills to the water with a finish designed to be flat and speedy, this is a course for every runner.

Runners of all levels and abilities can find the perfect challenge at Run For The Water. Whether new to running and looking to complete your first 5K, or looking to level-up and tackle a longer distance to test your speed and endurance our 10-miler is for you.

The Hill Challenge

Austin’s hills meet Burundi’s mountains in this powerful partnership. This fall, the 20th Annual Run For The Water brings back a fun way to run with joy and purpose: the Hill Challenge. This friendly competition to be the fastest on a 600 meter segment of the 10-mile course celebrates strength, joy, and determination. Whether you’re racing to win or simply to grow, your effort helps bring clean water to families, schools, and clinics in Burundi. Learn more.