One of Austin’s most iconic running events fielded its largest number of teams in history. The Zilker Relays were held Friday, September 11, at Zilker Park.
The event brings together teams of four runners or walkers, each completing a 2.5-mile leg around Zilker Park before handing a baton to the next teammate, for a total of 10 miles. This year, 430 teams took part—the most in the history of the race, which was founded in 2002.
Firefighter Running Zilker Relays
With the race happening on September 11, a moment of silence was held to remember those lost on 9/11. In addition, a team of firefighters ran the relay in full gear.
The weather held out, thankfully. After a record-tying high of 104 degrees that afternoon, scattered storms developed northwest of Austin but dissipated before reaching Zilker Park. Instead, runners enjoyed light rain and temperatures that dropped into the mid-80s. The humidity was extremely high, but the cooler temperatures and a nice breeze provided some limited relief for participants. After the rain, the sunset over Zilker Park was a spectacular backdrop for the race and post-race celebration, which featured food, drinks, and live music.
In addition to record participation, the event set a new course record. The first-place team, The Loop Elite, finished in 47 minutes and 45 seconds—that’s a 4:46-per-mile pace. Teams included men’s, women’s, masters, open, running clubs or stores, and employee-related groups. The City of Austin had the largest number of teams.
For the second straight year, CBS Austin Chief Meteorologist Chikage Windler served as a member of the Zilker Relays media team.
The race benefits Marathon Kids, the largest youth running program in the country. It is a nonprofit that encourages children to achieve goals through movement. Over the course of a school year, participants can complete the equivalent of one or more marathons. More than 1,000 schools and 300,000 students take part in Marathon Kids, which is based in Austin. Marathon Kids was also named CBS Austin’s September Community Partner.
Next year’s Zilker Relays race is set for Friday, September 10, 2027. You can register at the Austin Runners Club website here: https://austinrunners.org/zilker-relays/
This story aired on CBS Austin News Friday, September 11th, 2026 at 10 pm.
KEYE