The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The event is USATF-sanctioned and certified and features some of the best views Austin has to offer. The course is well-supported with 22 aid stations, 26 bands, hundreds of amazing signs, and thousands of cheering spectators. Historically, temperatures in mid-February range from a high of 66 degrees to a low of 42 degrees. The event annually attracts runners from all 50 states and 35+ countries around the world.
Elite Field and Prizes
The Austin Full Marathon features a total prize purse of $20,000, exclusive to the full marathon; the half marathon does not offer a prize purse, though eligible participants can receive a complimentary entry. The Elite Field is designed to support competitive runners and emerging talents aiming for Olympic standards. There is no limit on the number of runners in the Elite Field, but entry is conditional upon application approval and, for non-U.S. applicants, representation by a coach or sponsor. Elite athletes receive complimentary entry to the marathon.
Drug Testing and Prize Eligibility
All participating athletes are subject to random drug testing both before and after the race. Prize disbursements are made post-race following the completion of the drug testing protocols. Only runners in the Elite Field who complete the full marathon are eligible for prize money, which is awarded based on gun time rather than chip time. Notably, Elite runners are not eligible for age group awards, and age group runners who outperform elites will not receive prize money.
Reimbursements for Elite Runners
Elite runners who have met Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of travel expenses up to a specific limit, including flights and hotel stays. These requests are reviewed post-race by the race directors to determine eligibility. Participants must start the race to qualify for any reimbursements, and claims must be filed after the event. Claims submitted before race day will not be considered.
APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS
- Submit the Elite Application before the December 31 deadline.
- Non-U.S. applicants must be represented by a Coach or Sponsor
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until December 31. Applications received after this deadline will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Athletes will be notified of their selection by a representative of The Austin Marathon.
Please contact [email protected] to request an application and with any questions. Please allow 7-10 business days for a response.
Austin MarathonPrize Purse Details$20,0001st – $4000
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REQUIRED STANDARDS
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To be accepted into the Elite Field, athletes must meet the following standards no earlier than 3 years before Feb. 15, 2026: |
| Marathon | Half Marathon | |
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| Male | 2:29 | 1:09 |
| Female | 2:55 | 1:18 |
Standard Bonuses Available for Full Marathon
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| $200 for having hit the Olympic standard no earlier than 3 years before Feb. 15, 2026
Male: Female: | $200 for hitting Olympic standard during the 2026 Austin Marathon
Male: Female: | $500 for course record
2:14:23 |
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Click here to review a variety of questions and answers regarding the elite field and related information.
How do I qualify for the Elite Field in the Austin Marathon?
To qualify, male athletes must have completed a marathon in 2:29 or less and females in 2:55 or less; for the half marathon, the standards are 1:09 for males and 1:18 for females, within three years prior to race day.
What are the prize amounts for the Austin Marathon?
The total prize purse is $20,000, with awards distributed as follows: 1st place $4,000, 2nd place $3,000, 3rd place $1,500, 4th place $1,000, and 5th place $500, split evenly between men’s and women’s divisions.
What benefits do elite athletes receive?
Elite athletes in the Austin Marathon receive several benefits, including complimentary race entry and eligibility for prize money. Additional perks include special bibs, preferred starting positions, and standard bonuses of $200 for meeting Olympic standards and $500 for setting a new course record. While not specified for this particular race, elite athletes sometimes also receive travel stipends or accommodations at other events.
How does the drug testing process work?
Athletes are subject to random drug testing before and after the race, with prize disbursement contingent upon completion of these protocols.
Can elite athletes from outside the U.S. apply?
Yes, non-U.S. athletes may apply but must be represented by a coach or sponsor.
What is the deadline to apply for the Elite Field?
The application deadline is December 31. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until this date.
What happens if I apply after the deadline?
Late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
How will I know if I’ve been accepted into the Elite Field?
Athletes will be notified of their selection by a representative of The Austin Marathon.
What if I meet the standards during the application review period?
If you meet the qualifying standards after submitting your application but before the deadline, it’s advisable to update your application to ensure your performance is considered.
Does the race offer lodging or any transportation assistance?
The event does not offer lodging or transportation assistance. However, elite runners who have met Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of specific travel expenses. These requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis after the race.
Are there reimbursements for travel expenses for elite runners?
Elite runners who have met Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of specific travel expenses, which are reviewed post-race.
