3 events in Travis County, Texas
From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find marathon events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Travis County
3 events in Travis County-
Sat, May 23, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
AUSTIN'S BACKYARD MARATHON
How Far Will You Go?
"So, the last shall be first, and the first last"
BRONZE TICKET QUALIFIER
Runners on Lake Travis Hill Country trail
Texas Hill Country Paradise
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, our event takes place near Lago Vista, just 30 miles northwest of Austin. The course winds around a peninsula jutting into Lake Travis, offering stunning water views and the natural beauty of Central Texas. Experience the perfect blend of challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes that will keep you motivated hour after hour.
Join us for Austin's Backyard Marathon & Memorial Day Remembrance Run, a unique endurance event that allows you to push your limits in the beautiful Hill Country. This officially sanctioned Backyard Ultra is not just a race, it's a test of mental fortitude, strategic pacing, and physical endurance that will challenge you in ways you've never experienced.
The Backyard Ultra Format
Last Person Standing Challenge
This is an officially sanctioned Backyard Ultra. Complete each 4.167-mile loop within 60 minutes to continue. A new loop starts at the top of each hour.
Following our successful 2025 inaugural event, we are working toward Bronze Ticket qualifying status for 2026. Check back for updates on our certification progress!
Memorial Day Remembrance Run
Set Your Own Challenge for a Memorial Day Remembrance Run
While the last runner standing wins the overall championship and qualifying spot, you're welcome to participate according to your own goals. Many runners choose to complete a specific number of loops rather than competing in the last-person-standing challenge.
You'll earn recognition based on your achievement: Complete 1 loop (4-miles) for a woodallion, 4 loops for half marathon medal, 7 loops for marathon medal, or 8+ loops for ultra medal. Simply notify race staff when you've reached your personal goal.
The Rules for the Last Runner Standing Are Simple
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The course is a 4.167-mile (6.706 km) loop
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A new loop starts at the top of each hour
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Participants must complete each loop within the hour to continue
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Runners are eliminated if they fail to complete a loop in time or choose not to start the next loop
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The last person to complete a loop is declared the overall winner
Race Distance Equivalents
Half Marathon
4 Loops
13.1 miles
Marathon
7 Loops
26.2 miles
50K
8 Loops
31 miles
50 Miles
12 Loops
50 miles
100K
15 Loops
62 miles
100 Miles
24 Loops
100 miles
"This variation in terrain, from exposed shoreline paths to shaded and paved sections, will provide crucial diversity over extended hours of running. The course change also gives runners a mental reset, which can be psychologically significant in a format that tests mental endurance as much as physical stamina."
Awards
Finisher Medal
Complete at least one loop
🏅
Half Marathon Medal
Complete 4 loops (13.1 miles)
🥈
Marathon Medal
Complete 7 loops (26.2 miles)
🥇
Ultra Medal
Complete 8+ loops (33.336+ miles)
🏆
Last Person Standing
Overall winner + Bronze Ticket
👑
What's Included
Event Entry
Access to this unique endurance challenge in the Texas Hill Country
Custom Event T-shirt
Commemorative shirt to remember your achievement
Finisher's Medal
Earn a medal by completing at least one loop
Aid Station Support
Fully stocked aid stations to keep you going hour after hour
Ready to Test Your Limits?
Join us for this unique endurance challenge in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. How many loops can you complete?
REGISTER NOW!
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Sat, Jul 25, 2026 at 7:00 AMSee full details
Austin Solstice Circuit Challenge
The Fastest Summer Ultramarathon in Texas
July 25 & 26, 2026 | Pace Bend Park, Lake Travis
Set a PR!
Scenic Hill Country Course
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Texas Hill Country as you run on smooth paved roads winding through majestic oak trees. With Lake Travis as your backdrop, this picturesque route combines natural beauty with the perfect running surface for speed and comfort.
Race Image 1 Race Image 2
Set your sights on a personal record at the Austin Solstice Circuit Challenge. This unique event features a perfectly engineered 1.64-mile paved loop with an elevation gain of just 33ft at scenic Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis, designed for speed and performance even in July.
Race Distances
52.7 Mile Race
Loops: 32
Distance: 52.7 mi
Start: 7:00 PM 07/25
50K
Loops: 19
Distance: 31.0 mi
Start: 7:00 PM 07/25
Marathon (USATF Certification code: TX25015LAB)
Loops: 16
Distance: 26.35 mi
Start: 7:00 PM 07/25
25K
Loops: 10
Distance: 15.5 mi
Start: 7:00 PM 07/25; 7:00AM 07/26
10K
Loops: 4
Distance: 6.2 mi
Start: 7:00 PM 07/25;
7:00 AM 07/26
5K
Loops: 2
Distance: 3.1 mi
Start: 7:00 PM 07/25
7:00 AM 07/26
Carpe Diem 60
One Hour. One Sunrise.
Beat the heat.
Seize the morning.
Earn your day.
Start: 6:00 AM 07/26
7:00 AM 07/26
Why Choose This Race?
Fast, PR-Friendly USATF Certified Marathon Course (Boston Qualifier)
Unlike typical Texas summer ultras with brutal heat and technical trails, our smooth asphalt loop with minimal elevation gain creates ideal conditions for record-setting performances. This is a USATF-certified course: Certification code: TX25015LAB.
Evening Start Format
Race as the sun sets and July's magnificent Buck Moon rises over the limestone bluffs. Our strategic evening start times for longer distances mean cooler temperatures when you need it most.
Pacers Allowed
While we won't be providing official pacing groups for the Austin Solstice Circuit Challenge due to our size, we enthusiastically welcome personal pacers for both the Marathon, 50K and 52.7 Mile Solo events. Personal pacers can join Marathon and 50K participants after 8 loops and 52.7 Mile runners after 16 loops (approximately halfway points). Each pacer must pay a $15 fee that covers park entry, administrative costs, and an official pacer bib. Pacers need to sign a waiver and wear their designated "PACER" bib while on course. Runners are responsible for arranging their own pacers, but the loop format makes it particularly convenient for your support crew to join when you need them most. We find this flexibility is especially appreciated by first-time marathoners and ultra runners who benefit from personalized support during the challenging later miles as day turns to evening.
Pickup Information:
Saturday Packet Pickup:
Available from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
Race Day Pickup:
For those unable to attend on Saturday or who prefer to pick up on race day, same-day packet pickup will be available Sunday morning from 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM.
Carpe Diem 60
One Hour. One Sunrise. Start your day with purpose.
Carpe Diem 60 is a 60-minute sunrise endurance challenge on this out-and-back course. At 6:00 AM, you’ll have one hour to cover as much distance as possible with early morning focus. Most Distance Covered Wins
Beat the heat. Seize the morning. Earn your day.
Course Details
The distinctive figure-8 course winds through the breathtaking Hill Country landscape of Pace Bend Park, featuring limestone bluffs, majestic oak trees, and views of Lake Travis. The smooth asphalt surface throughout makes it perfect for both day and night running, with the main loop connecting to a smaller upper loop.
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Surface: 100% smooth, paved asphalt – ideal for consistent pacing
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Elevation: Minimal gain per loop – gentle, predictable terrain
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Loop Length: 1.64 miles in a figure-8 configuration
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Scenery: Limestone bluffs, oak-covered hills, and Lake Travis views
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Aid Station: Access every 1.64 miles at the start/finish hub
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Marking: Fully marked with reflective markers for nighttime visibility
"Whether you're chasing a PR, a qualifying time, or simply want to experience the joy of running fast through a Texas summer night beneath towering oaks and limestone cliffs, the Solstice Circuit Challenge offers a rare opportunity to push your limits under optimal conditions."
Amenities
Aid Station
Fully stocked station at the start/finish hub
Restrooms
Convenient toilet vault facilities
Camping
First-come, first-served sites surrounding the course
Parking
Multiple areas for easy access
Finisher Awards
Medals and custom challenge coins for all finishers
Commemorate your achievement with a premium custom-designed medal featuring Lake Travis. These coins are part of the Race Austin Series: Collector's Challenge, which allows you to exchange three same-tier coins from different Fit Foundation races for a complimentary race entry of the same tier.
Race Austin Coin Challenge Race Austin Coin Challenge Race Austin Coin Challenge
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience
Race from sunset to stars beneath the Buck Moon on the fastest summer ultra course in the Texas Hill Country.
REGISTER NOW!
Ready to prepare? Check out our comprehensive training guide designed specifically for the Solstice Circuit Challenge.
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Fri, Nov 27, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
COLORADO RIVER RUN
Run to the River
"Out here on these trails, not all who wander are lost, some are simply finding their strength."
100 MILES
50 MILES, 10 MILES & 5 MILES
50K & MARATHON
HALF MARATHON
10K & 5K
An invigorating trail adventure at Turkey Bend Park
Connect with Nature, Challenge Your Endurance
Set along the scenic banks and trails surrounding the majestic Colorado River at Turkey Bend Park, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while testing your limits. Run through diverse landscapes, including riverbanks, rugged trails, and serene natural habitats as you embrace the spirit of outdoor adventure.
The Colorado River Run promises to be a memorable experience for runners and nature enthusiasts alike. The course layout is designed to highlight the river's most picturesque spots while providing a challenging terrain for runners of all levels, from competitive athletes seeking to set personal records to recreational runners looking for a unique trail experience.
Register by November 7, 2026 to guarantee your race shirt!
Reserve an 8-person camping spot here
Race Distances
100 Mile Ultramarathon
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Cut-off: 39 hours
The ultimate river trail adventure for endurance athletes
50 Mile Ultramarathon, 10 Miler, 5 Miler
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Cut-off: 36 hours
Challenge yourself with breathtaking river views
50K & Marathon (26.2 miles)
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Cut-off: 12 hours
Classic distance with unforgettable scenery
Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Cut-off: 9 hours
Perfect distance to enjoy the river trails
10K (6.2 miles) | 5K Run/Walk (3.1 miles)
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Cut-off: 9 hours
Family-friendly option - children can accompany registered parents for free!
Course Description
Scenic River Trails
The course is designed to highlight the Colorado River's most picturesque spots while providing a challenging terrain for runners. You'll experience diverse landscapes, including riverbanks, rugged trails, and serene natural habitats.
Fully Supported Adventure
Fully stocked aid stations along the course, providing hydration, nutrition, and medical assistance to ensure your safety and well-being. Our eco-friendly practices, such as waste reduction and the use of sustainable materials, minimize the event's environmental footprint.
What You'll Experience
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Terrain: Mix of single-track trails, dirt paths, and occasional technical sections
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Scenery: Stunning river views, natural habitats, and diverse ecosystems
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Elevation: Moderate with some challenging climbs and descents
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Support: Well-stocked aid stations with friendly volunteers
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Community: Welcoming atmosphere for runners of all abilities
Ready for 100 Miles?
Access your complete 100-mile training plan to prepare for this epic adventure!
ACCESS TRAINING PLAN
What's Included
Custom Finisher Medal
Unique medal for all finishers
Aid Stations
Fully stocked with nutrition and hydration
Support
On-course and at finish line
Pacing Allowed for Ultra Distances
Pacers are allowed for the 100 Mile Run (after mile 50) and 50 Mile Run (after mile 30) to provide safety and encouragement during later stages. One pacer per runner is permitted on course at any time. Pacers must register at the designated check-in area, sign a waiver, pay a $15 fee, and wear an official "PACER" bib. Pacers must be 18+ (16-17 with parental consent), can only enter/exit at aid stations, and cannot provide physical assistance or carry the runner's supplies. Pacers may switch at any aid station but must check in with station personnel. Pacers are only eligible for water and emergency medical support at aid stations.
Family-Friendly 5K Option
Parents are welcome to run or walk the 5K course with their young children at no additional cost!
Organized in partnership with Healthy Kids Running Series Cedar Park. Proceeds support HKRS Cedar Park youth running programs.
Children MUST be registered to participate
Volunteer Opportunities
We Need Help With:
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Course Marshals
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Aid Station Support
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Registration/Packet Pickup Assistants
All Volunteers Receive:
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Race shirt
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Meal and snacks
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Community service hours
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Future race credit
Shifts Available:
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Morning: 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
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Afternoon: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Email: [email protected] to volunteer or click here
Ready for Your Colorado River Adventure?
Join us for this unique trail experience along the scenic banks of the Colorado River. Challenge your endurance and connect with nature!
REGISTER NOW!
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