Rodeo Trail Run of Austin: Half-Marathon, Marathon & Backyard Ultra
From Fit Foundation
- Date Sat 14th March 2026
- Time 9:00AM CDT
- Location Spicewood, Texas
- Price $117.59 - $149.39
- Races 3 races
- Distances Half Marathon, Marathon, Ultra
Last chance to enter
Race day is fast approaching
Event summary
Get ready to saddle up for an exhilarating experience at the Rodeo Trail Run of Austin on Saturday, March 14, 2026! Hosted by the Fit Foundation, this unique event will take place in the stunning natural surroundings of Spicewood, Burnet, Texas. Participants can choose to challenge themselves with a half-marathon (13.1 miles), a full marathon (26.2 miles), or the exciting Backyard Ultra, where endurance and grit are put to the ultimate test.
As Austin embraces its cowboy spirit with Rodeo Austin festivities, the Rodeo Trail Run offers a gritty, genuine trail-running experience. With rocky terrains, steep climbs, and rolling dirt roads, this event is designed for runners who thrive on challenge and adventure. Plus, every finisher earns a custom rodeo-style buckle, making all that hard work worthwhile! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a spirited newcomer, this event promises camaraderie, excitement, and plenty of Texas charm. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today and be part of something truly special!
As Austin embraces its cowboy spirit with Rodeo Austin festivities, the Rodeo Trail Run offers a gritty, genuine trail-running experience. With rocky terrains, steep climbs, and rolling dirt roads, this event is designed for runners who thrive on challenge and adventure. Plus, every finisher earns a custom rodeo-style buckle, making all that hard work worthwhile! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a spirited newcomer, this event promises camaraderie, excitement, and plenty of Texas charm. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today and be part of something truly special!
Organiser's Description
RODEO HALF-MARATHON, MARATHON AND BACKYARD ULTRA
_SADDLE UP. RUN HARD. RUN THE TRAILS. _
_EARN THE BUCKLE. BE PART OF SOMETHING GRITTY AND REAL._
RACE WEEKEND: March 14, 2026
Prices increase as spots fill.
-------------------------
TWO RODEOS. ONE CITY. ENDLESS GRIT.
Come March 2026, while Austin celebrates cowboys, concerts, and competition at RODEO AUSTIN, a different kind of rodeo will unfold on the trails.
Welcome to THE RODEO TRAIL RUN OF AUSTIN, where effort matters, the terrain tests you, and every finisher earns a custom rodeo-style buckle.
THE BULL TECHNICAL COURSE SEGMENT
Some sections of the course are rocky, steep, and technical, earning its nickname for a reason. Runners will tackle a challenging course featuring:
* Loose and exposed rock
* Short but steep climbs and descents
* Uneven footing that rewards patience and smart pacing
The elevation profile reflects frequent grade changes, making the technical segments as much about control and durability as speed.
This is a true test of:
* Foot placement
* Mental focus
* Trail toughness
_RESPECT THE BULL IT ADDS UP LAP AFTER LAP._
[Respect the Bull]
THE MAIN EVENT: THE RODEO HALF-MARATHON & MARATHON
This is a no-frills, honest trail half-marathon and marathon on classic Texas Hill Country terrain. Rolling dirt roads, rugged footing, wide skies, and a course that rewards steady grit over hype.
Whether youre racing hard or running strong, this is a course that feels earned.
Half Marathon and Marathon Details:
* Distance: Half marathon, 13.1 miles, and full marathon, 26.2 miles (trail)
* Start Time: 9:00 AM
* Fully stocked aid stations
* Finisher recognition for every runner
* Custom participant shirt
* Rodeo-inspired atmosphere (without the chaos)
Field is capped. Prices increase soon.
REGISTERED RUNNERS FOR THE RODEO HALF MARATHON (MARCH 14) RECEIVE A FREE, TRAIL-SPECIFIC 12-WEEK TRAINING PLAN, BUILT FOR HILL COUNTRY TERRAIN.
BONUS EVENT: RODEO BACKYARD ULTRA (LIMITED FIELD)
AT THE RODEO BACKYARD ULTRA, the 4.167-mile (6.706 km) out and back course is the BULL, and every hour, runners have to RIDE THAT BULL again by completing a lap before the hour ends. When the next hour begins, the bull comes charging back out and the runner has to saddle up once more.
Backyard Ultra runners will complete their segment as an out-and-back each lap, returning the same way they came. Expect the terrain to feel very different on the way back.
This is a small, gritty, invitational-style Backyard Ultra capped at 20-25 runners. If the field doesnt fill, the event will convert to a timed endurance format.
Just like in the arena, this race tests ENDURANCE, GRIT, AND HEART, seeing how long you can "stay on."
The event keeps going until there's only one runner left: the LAST ONE STANDING.
[Rodeo Backyard Ultra]
-------------------------
HOW IT WORKS
* Each hour, runners start a 4.167-mile loop (_"the bull"_).
* Finish within the hour to stay in the race.
* Any leftover time is your rest, until the bell rings again.
* Miss the cutoff, and you're "bucked from the bull."
* The race continues until only one cowboy or cowgirl remains standing.
* _RUNNERS BUCKLE AWARDED FOR COMPLETING 3 LOOPS (13+ MILES)_
_ How It Works With Marathon Option
If you dont finish a loop within the 60-minute cutoff, youre officially bucked from the bull in the Backyard division.
BUT
Instead of heading home, you can drop down into the Marathon Division and continue running loops until you complete 26.2 miles.
That means:
Backyard runners compete for Last One Standing
Dropped runners can still finish strong with a full marathon completion
No wasted miles. No early exit from the party. _
-------------------------
COURSE & EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
THE CHUTE _(STARTING CORRAL)_
Each hour begins in the "chute," where runners line up like rodeo riders waiting for the next bull. When the cowbell rings, it's time to ride.
THE ROPER'S TURNAROUND
At the halfway point, runners must LASSO A POST before returning, symbolizing "roping the bull."
This ritual, called THE CATCH, keeps the cowboy spirit alive with every loop.
To verify, each runner moves their TOKEN (washer, chip, or bracelet) on a pegboard when they rope successfully, a simple, reliable self-check system.
THE WATERING HOLE _(AID STATION)_
Recharge at the CHUCKWAGON with hydration, fuel, and friendly faces before the next ride.
THE ARENA _(FINISH AREA)_
When you finish a loop, RING THE COWBELL to announce your successful ride.
The echo of cowbells fills camp, a sound that says another bull's been tamed.
[Rodeo Backyard Ultra]
-------------------------
STAR READY TO RIDE? STAR
_Join us for Austin's most unique trail half-marathon, marathon and backyard ultra experience!_
_This event is not affiliated with Rodeo Austin. Organized in partnership with Healthy Kids Running Series Cedar Park. Proceeds support HKRS Cedar Park youth running programs._
_SADDLE UP. RUN HARD. RUN THE TRAILS. _
_EARN THE BUCKLE. BE PART OF SOMETHING GRITTY AND REAL._
RACE WEEKEND: March 14, 2026
Prices increase as spots fill.
-------------------------
TWO RODEOS. ONE CITY. ENDLESS GRIT.
Come March 2026, while Austin celebrates cowboys, concerts, and competition at RODEO AUSTIN, a different kind of rodeo will unfold on the trails.
Welcome to THE RODEO TRAIL RUN OF AUSTIN, where effort matters, the terrain tests you, and every finisher earns a custom rodeo-style buckle.
THE BULL TECHNICAL COURSE SEGMENT
Some sections of the course are rocky, steep, and technical, earning its nickname for a reason. Runners will tackle a challenging course featuring:
* Loose and exposed rock
* Short but steep climbs and descents
* Uneven footing that rewards patience and smart pacing
The elevation profile reflects frequent grade changes, making the technical segments as much about control and durability as speed.
This is a true test of:
* Foot placement
* Mental focus
* Trail toughness
_RESPECT THE BULL IT ADDS UP LAP AFTER LAP._
[Respect the Bull]
THE MAIN EVENT: THE RODEO HALF-MARATHON & MARATHON
This is a no-frills, honest trail half-marathon and marathon on classic Texas Hill Country terrain. Rolling dirt roads, rugged footing, wide skies, and a course that rewards steady grit over hype.
Whether youre racing hard or running strong, this is a course that feels earned.
Half Marathon and Marathon Details:
* Distance: Half marathon, 13.1 miles, and full marathon, 26.2 miles (trail)
* Start Time: 9:00 AM
* Fully stocked aid stations
* Finisher recognition for every runner
* Custom participant shirt
* Rodeo-inspired atmosphere (without the chaos)
Field is capped. Prices increase soon.
REGISTERED RUNNERS FOR THE RODEO HALF MARATHON (MARCH 14) RECEIVE A FREE, TRAIL-SPECIFIC 12-WEEK TRAINING PLAN, BUILT FOR HILL COUNTRY TERRAIN.
BONUS EVENT: RODEO BACKYARD ULTRA (LIMITED FIELD)
AT THE RODEO BACKYARD ULTRA, the 4.167-mile (6.706 km) out and back course is the BULL, and every hour, runners have to RIDE THAT BULL again by completing a lap before the hour ends. When the next hour begins, the bull comes charging back out and the runner has to saddle up once more.
Backyard Ultra runners will complete their segment as an out-and-back each lap, returning the same way they came. Expect the terrain to feel very different on the way back.
This is a small, gritty, invitational-style Backyard Ultra capped at 20-25 runners. If the field doesnt fill, the event will convert to a timed endurance format.
Just like in the arena, this race tests ENDURANCE, GRIT, AND HEART, seeing how long you can "stay on."
The event keeps going until there's only one runner left: the LAST ONE STANDING.
[Rodeo Backyard Ultra]
-------------------------
HOW IT WORKS
* Each hour, runners start a 4.167-mile loop (_"the bull"_).
* Finish within the hour to stay in the race.
* Any leftover time is your rest, until the bell rings again.
* Miss the cutoff, and you're "bucked from the bull."
* The race continues until only one cowboy or cowgirl remains standing.
* _RUNNERS BUCKLE AWARDED FOR COMPLETING 3 LOOPS (13+ MILES)_
_ How It Works With Marathon Option
If you dont finish a loop within the 60-minute cutoff, youre officially bucked from the bull in the Backyard division.
BUT
Instead of heading home, you can drop down into the Marathon Division and continue running loops until you complete 26.2 miles.
That means:
Backyard runners compete for Last One Standing
Dropped runners can still finish strong with a full marathon completion
No wasted miles. No early exit from the party. _
-------------------------
COURSE & EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
THE CHUTE _(STARTING CORRAL)_
Each hour begins in the "chute," where runners line up like rodeo riders waiting for the next bull. When the cowbell rings, it's time to ride.
THE ROPER'S TURNAROUND
At the halfway point, runners must LASSO A POST before returning, symbolizing "roping the bull."
This ritual, called THE CATCH, keeps the cowboy spirit alive with every loop.
To verify, each runner moves their TOKEN (washer, chip, or bracelet) on a pegboard when they rope successfully, a simple, reliable self-check system.
THE WATERING HOLE _(AID STATION)_
Recharge at the CHUCKWAGON with hydration, fuel, and friendly faces before the next ride.
THE ARENA _(FINISH AREA)_
When you finish a loop, RING THE COWBELL to announce your successful ride.
The echo of cowbells fills camp, a sound that says another bull's been tamed.
[Rodeo Backyard Ultra]
-------------------------
STAR READY TO RIDE? STAR
_Join us for Austin's most unique trail half-marathon, marathon and backyard ultra experience!_
_This event is not affiliated with Rodeo Austin. Organized in partnership with Healthy Kids Running Series Cedar Park. Proceeds support HKRS Cedar Park youth running programs._
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Location
640 CR 412,, Spicewood, 78669, TX, United States
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Rodeo Trail Run of Austin: Half-Marathon, Marathon & Backyard Ultra
