Ascension Seton Austin Marathon 2024 Showcases Global Talent and Community Support
Austin Embraces Thousands in a Day of Athletic Excellence and Citywide Celebration
The streets of Austin were alive with energy and camaraderie this past weekend as nearly 19,000 registered runners from all 50 states and a record-breaking 50 different countries converged for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k on February 18, 2024. The event, renowned for its scenic route and vibrant atmosphere, culminated in a celebration of fitness, community, and remarkable achievements.
The Health and Fitness Expo, having achieved a sell-out status with exhibitors, took place on Friday and Saturday prior to the race, establishing an electrifying kickoff for a weekend of inspiration. Both participants and visitors were treated to an extensive showcase of the newest health trends, cutting-edge running gear, and vital nutritional insights, setting the stage for an unparalleled race day experience.
The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for marathon day, with clear skies, no wind and cool temperatures providing ideal conditions for runners. The event kicked off with an emotional rendition of the National Anthem by Grammy-nominated Gina Chavez, setting a patriotic and unifying tone for the day ahead. In a nod to innovation and sustainability, the new Tesla Cybertruck led the way as the marathon’s lead vehicle, symbolizing the cutting-edge spirit of both the event and the city itself.
In an impressive display of athleticism and endurance, George Onyancha clinched the title of male marathon winner with a remarkable time of 02:19:07.1, while Damaris Areba led the female marathon category, crossing the finish line at 02:38:52.0. Both victors, vying for a share of a $20,000 prize purse, repeated their triumphant performances from 2023, showcasing their consistent dominance and dedication to the sport. The half marathon also witnessed fierce competition, with John Bowers emerging victorious in the male category with a time of 01:08:06.2, and Sarah Jackson leading the female half marathoners with a time of 01:18:13.0. Their exceptional performances underscored the depth of talent present at this year’s event. The FloTrack Live Broadcast presented by OOFOS captured the elite field competition. The playback can be found HERE.
As runners crossed the finish line, they entered the vibrant OOFOS Finisher Festival downtown. This lively celebration spanning four city blocks featured snacks, hydration stations, food trucks, and live music in the EIGHT Beer Garden where Tito’s drinks were also served, offering a fitting conclusion to a day that celebrated both individual achievement and the collective spirit of the community.
The Austin Marathon would not have been possible without the support of the City of Austin, Austin Police Department, Department of Public Safety, CapMetro, and Travis County EMS., and all the 2500 volunteers that played a critical role in the seamless execution of this event. Their unwavering support and dedication ensure the Austin Marathon remains a highlight on the global running calendar. Sponsors, included Ascension Seton, the Moody Foundation, Fleet Feet Austin, GU, OOFOS, Nuun, EIGHT Beer, Evamor, Super Coffee, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, SPIbelt, H-E-B, Favor, BPN, StretchLab, KXAN, Fogo de Chao, Austin Sports Commission, FloTrack, FinisherPix, Texas Drain Specialist, and Lifetime Fitness. Their commitment to the success of the marathon and the health and wellness of the community was evident throughout the weekend.
Registration is open for the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k scheduled for February 16, 2025. Special pricing is set at $129 for the marathon, $109 for the half marathon, and $59 for the 5K. Participants of this year’s race can see their results on the Austin Marathon website and continue to share their memorable experiences on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Runners can expect their FinisherPix race day photos to be ready in 24-48 hours after the race.
About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: Since its inception in 1992, the Austin Marathon® has emerged as a world-class running event, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 50 countries. With a course that spans every quadrant of this dynamic city, offering a festive atmosphere with live music throughout, the marathon culminates in a vibrant finisher party. The event also serves as a powerful force for good, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for various non-profit organizations. The Austin Marathon elevates Presidents Day weekend into a grand showcase of athleticism and community spirit, making it a bucket-list event for athletes, enthusiasts, and supporters from all over the world.
