A male runner wearing sunglasses and a race bib triumphantly crosses the finish line at the Austin Marathon. Colorful confetti fills the air. Text at the bottom highlights record-breaking growth and announces the 2026 Elite Program. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

Austin Marathon Opens 2026 Elite Program Amid Record-Breaking Growth

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Applications open for top-tier runners as event prepares for its biggest year yet

The 2026 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K is on pace to host more than 30,000 participants, making it the largest edition in the event’s history — and today, organizers are proud to officially open applications for the 2026 Elite Athlete Program.

The Austin Marathon Elite Program offers a world-class experience to top-tier runners in both the full and half marathon distances, with a focus on fast times, fair competition, and an unforgettable Austin race weekend.

 

“We’re seeing incredible growth across every category for 2026, and that momentum extends to the elite field,” said Emily Stevens, Director of the Elite Program. “With athletes from across the country already expressing interest, we’re looking forward to assembling our most competitive and diverse field yet.”

 

Elite athletes accepted into the program receive:

  • Guaranteed entry to the 2026 Austin Marathon or Half Marathon
  • Front-row start line access with athlete-only amenities
  • A competitive prize purse in both events
  • The chance to race through the streets of one of America’s most vibrant cities on a USATF-certified course

Applications are now open at youraustinmarathon.com/austin-marathon-elites and will be accepted through December 31, 2025. Interested athletes should submit recent race results, a short bio, and preferred distance for consideration.

 

The 2026 event weekend will take place February 14–16, 2026, with elite competition taking center stage on Sunday, February 15.

For elite questions, contact Emily Stevens at [emily@youraustinmarathon.com]. For general race info and registration, visityouraustinmarathon.com.

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.

Journaling Your Journey: Tracking Progress and Reflecting on TrainingA person in workout clothes sits cross-legged on a mat, journaling their training. The image has a purple and blue border with the text: "Journaling Your Journey: Tracking Progress and Reflecting on Training. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KTwo smiling runners in athletic gear hold medals and pose at the race finish line, surrounded by banners and city buildings. Text at the bottom reads: "Visualization Techniques: Preparing Your Mind for Race Day.”. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KVisualization Techniques: Preparing Your Mind for Race Day