AUSTIN, Texas — At most races, a finisher medal ends up around a runner’s neck.

At Run For The Water 2026, organizers say theirs looks a little different.

Instead of investing heavily in traditional finisher medals, the Austin-based race has long chosen to direct more resources toward the mission behind the event: helping the Gazelle Foundation design, build, and fund clean water systems in Burundi.

The symbolism has become part of the event’s identity.

“Most medals symbolize accomplishment — the miles you pushed through and something meaningful you achieved,” said founder Gilbert Tuhabonye. “At Run For The Water, ours looks like clean water flowing from a tap stand in Burundi.”

For nearly two decades, Run For The Water has connected the Austin running community to the foundation’s clean water mission in Burundi. Funds raised through the race help support gravity-fed water systems that provide long-term access to clean water for families and communities.

Race organizers say the decision reflects the event’s broader philosophy: prioritizing lasting impact over finish-line extras.

“No, you can’t hang it around your neck or display it on a shelf,” organizers shared in recent anniversary messaging. “But clean water changes lives every single day.”

Now entering its 20th anniversary year, Run For The Water continues to grow while staying rooted in the mission that inspired it from the beginning: turning miles into meaningful impact.

The 20th anniversary race takes place Sunday, November 8, 2026, in Austin, Texas, and includes a 10-Miler, 5K, Kids K, and Global Run virtual option.

Registration and information:
Run For The Water Official Website

About the Gazelle Foundation
The Gazelle Foundation is an Austin-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clean water to communities in Burundi through sustainable, community-owned water systems. Learn more at Gazelle Foundation.

Media Contact

Courtney Waldren
Executive Director
Gazelle Foundation

Email: courtney@gazellefoundation.org

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