Ascension Seton Austin Marathon Unveils Elite Athlete Field for 35th Anniversary
Top U.S. and international competitors set to take on Austin’s streets with Olympic-level stakes on February 15, 2026
The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k is proud to announce the selection of elite athletes for the 2026 event. This long standing program aims to assemble a competitive field of top-tier male and female runners while also identifying emerging talents, elevating the overall standard of competition to Olympic levels. FloTrack’s live coverage will capture the intensity among elite marathoners providing a spotlight on their performances. The 35th Anniversary Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is scheduled for February 15, 2026.
“The Elite Athlete Program continues to grow in both depth and prestige each year,” said Emily Stevens, Athlete Services Manager for the Austin Marathon. “We’re seeing stronger fields, faster times, and a clear pathway from Austin to the highest levels of the sport. Bringing this caliber of competition to our 35th Anniversary race adds an incredible energy to the weekend.”
The elite athletes for the 2026 Austin Marathon and Half Marathon includes:
Marathon Female Elites:
- Careth Arnold
- Emily Sharp
- EUNICE MUKINA MUTUNGI
- Joy Jiang
- RISPER CHEBET
- Sarah Jackson
- Valentyna Poltavska
Marathon Male Elites:
- Bradley Makuvire
- Charles Mahiuha
- Christopher Kipkurui
- Daniel Lemashon salel
- Guillaume RUEL
- Jackson Siddall
- Jacob Buhler
- Joseph Whelan
- Justin Botello
- Mark Messmer
- Michael Bailey
- Mohammed El Yazidi
- Sammy Kogo
- Sean Handel
Half Marathon Female Elites:
- Emma Lopez
- Katherine Deegan
- Michelle Murray
- Mina Glenesk
- Rachel Schwab
Half Marathon Male Elites:
- Alan Catana
- Alejandro Gonzalez
- Caleb Hershey
- Carter Campbell
- David Fuentes
- Kevin Petow
- Mace Galliete
- Nadir Yusuf
- Oscar Acosta
- Rickey Armstrong
- Ridley Holmes
- Shane Kelliher
- Taylor Smith
For 2026, the marathon elite prize purse remains at a strong $20,000. While the half marathon does not offer prize money, elite runners may receive a complimentary entry if they meet the qualifying standards outlined below.
All athletes, including those in the Elite Field, are subject to random pre- and post-race drug testing. Prize checks will be mailed post-race upon completion of the drug testing protocol. Only Full Marathon runners accepted into the Elite Field are eligible for prize money, and they are not eligible for age group awards. All prize money and elite field awards are based on gun time, not chip time.
For questions or additional information, please contact elites@youraustinmarathon.com. Please allow 7-10 business days for a response.
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.
