October in Austin: A Month of Events You Don’t Want to Miss

in

Fall is finally here in Austin, and while we’re all counting down the days until the Austin Marathon, October is packed with events that make this city so special. From music festivals to major sports matchups, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your calendar, because we’re diving into all the must-see events happening this October in Austin!

1. Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival – Weekend 1 & 2

It wouldn’t be October in Austin without the iconic ACL Festival taking over Zilker Park. Whether you’re rocking out with the headliners or discovering your new favorite band at one of the smaller stages, this is one event you can’t miss. Happening across two weekends, October 4-6 and October 11-13, ACL brings some of the world’s biggest names in music right to the heart of the city. And with perfect fall weather rolling in, it’s the ideal time to enjoy live music outdoors!

Pro tip: If you’re training for the Austin Marathon, you can use ACL as your long run soundtrack. Why not log some miles around Zilker before settling in for a day of music?

2. Party for the Parks – October 9

If you love Austin’s green spaces, you’ll want to check out Party for the Parks, the Austin Parks Foundations annual fundraiser, on October 9. This event raises funds for Austin’s beloved parks (which, let’s be real, many of us run through!). Enjoy live music, local food, and drinks while giving back to the places that make Austin such a fantastic city to run and play in. It’s the perfect way to kick off ACL weekend while supporting a good cause.

3. Formula 1 United States Grand Prix – October 18-20

Shift gears from running shoes to race cars with the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. From October 18-20, the world’s fastest drivers will zoom into Austin for one of the most thrilling weekends of the year. Even if you’re not a die-hard F1 fan, the atmosphere is electric. Plus, this event pulls in global visitors, turning Austin into an even more vibrant hub of activity. There’s also post-race concerts and food galore, so get ready for some high-octane fun!

4. Austin FC – October 19

October is a huge month for Austin FC, and the energy at Q2 Stadium is electric! Mark your calendars for the October 19 match against Colorado FC. With 90 minutes of nonstop soccer action, you’ll still have plenty of time to explore Austin before or after the game. Pro Tip: For post-game drinks, head over to The Domain, right next to the stadium!

5. University of Texas Football Games – October 19 & 26

Fall Saturdays in Austin mean one thing: Texas Longhorns football. October is a busy month for UT, with several home games at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Austin, nothing beats the energy of game day on campus. Here are the games you can catch this month:

  • October 12: Texas vs. Oklahoma Red River Rivalry ( Although this game takes place in Dallas, the excitement is just as intense here in Austin. You’ll find watch parties all over the city, so even if you’re not in the stands, you won’t miss out on the game-day energy)
  • October 19: Texas vs. Georgia
  • October 26: Texas vs. Vanderbilt

Whether you’re tailgating with friends, cheering from the stands, or watching the game at a local bar, UT football is an essential part of Austin culture. And if you’re looking to stay active on game days, try a morning run around the UT campus before heading to the stadium. You’ll get a great workout and a front-row seat to the pregame excitement.

6. Livestrong Challenge – October 20

Ready to push yourself for a great cause? The Livestrong Challenge returns to Austin on October 19-20, offering a weekend packed with cycling, running, and walking events to support cancer survivors and their families. Whether you’re tackling the 5K, 10K, or joining a cycling route, this event combines fitness with a purpose. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay active while giving back to the community. Rally your friends, get moving, and be part of a powerful movement that’s all about strength and support!

If you’re not doing something sports related in Austin this weekend what are you doing!? 

7. Get Ready for the Austin Marathon!

While you’re enjoying everything October has to offer, don’t forget—the Austin Marathon is just a few months away! Whether you’re starting your training plan or upping your mileage, all these incredible events can keep you motivated and excited about what’s to come.

So mark your calendars, and make the most of October in Austin! There’s no better way to experience the city’s energy than by diving into its music, sports, and festivals. See you out there!

How to Protect Your Skin on the Run: Essential Tips for Runners

in

As runners, we spend a lot of time outdoors soaking up the Texas sunshine. While getting out in the fresh air is great for our training (and our souls!), it’s important to remember that all that exposure to the elements can take a toll on our skin. Whether you’re logging miles in the Texas heat or training through cooler fall weather, protecting your skin should be part of your routine.

Here are some essential tips to keep your skin safe and healthy while you chase those running goals—and a shoutout to our awesome sponsors, L’Oréal’s La Roche-Posay and CeraVe dermatology lines, for helping us runners stay protected by providing sunscreen in the participant swag bags.

1. Apply Sunscreen Every Time You Run

This is the number one rule for any runner—never skip the sunscreen! The sun’s UV rays can be harmful year-round, not just during the summer, and running outdoors increases your exposure. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re out for a long run.

A great option is La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and designed for active use, so it won’t drip into your eyes mid-run. Plus, it provides powerful protection without feeling greasy.

2. Don’t Forget the Ears, Lips, and Scalp

When you’re gearing up for a run, it’s easy to overlook certain spots that are just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your body. Make sure you cover your ears, lips, and scalp—these areas often get neglected but are just as exposed to harmful rays. Use a lip balm with SPF and consider a hat or visor to shield your scalp and face.

La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast Balm is a runner’s dream for protecting sensitive skin areas. Its soothing formula works great on lips and dry patches, making it a versatile addition to your skin-care arsenal.

3. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing

While sunscreen is essential, adding a layer of clothing designed to block UV rays can give you an extra boost of protection. Look for moisture-wicking, UPF-rated running gear that can shield your skin without trapping heat. This can help reduce your need for sunscreen reapplication and keep your skin cool during long workouts.

Even a wide-brimmed hat or lightweight long-sleeve shirt can make a difference in protecting your skin on the sunniest days.

4. Hydrate Inside and Out

Proper hydration isn’t just about keeping your muscles happy—it’s crucial for your skin, too. Running causes you to lose moisture through sweat, which can leave your skin dry and irritated. Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your run to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

After your run, using a hydrating moisturizer can replenish the moisture your skin loses and keep it smooth and healthy. A product like La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer can help repair your skin’s moisture barrier and soothe any irritation caused by sun and sweat.

5. Be Mindful of Your Running Time

The time of day you choose to run can have a big impact on your skin’s exposure to harmful UV rays. Try to avoid peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If possible, schedule your runs early in the morning or later in the evening. Your skin—and your performance—will thank you for the cooler, less intense conditions.

6. Post-Run Skin Care Is Key

Once you’ve crushed your run, don’t forget to give your skin some TLC. Rinse off sweat and sunscreen with a gentle cleanser to prevent breakouts and irritation. Follow up with a soothing moisturizer to lock in hydration and repair any damage from your workout.

La Roche-Posay’s Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin post-run. It helps remove dirt, sweat, and sunscreen without stripping away your skin’s natural oils.

Whether you’re training for the Austin Marathon or simply enjoying a casual jog through town, taking care of your skin is a must. With the right protection, you can focus on hitting your goals without worrying about sun damage. So, gear up with sunscreen, grab your favorite sun hat, and keep those miles rolling!

We’ll see you at the finish line—healthy skin and all!

Official Nonprofits Selected for 2025 Austin Marathon®

in , ,

Marathon’s Philanthropic Program Continues Support of Local Charities

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is excited to announce the full roster of charities selected for their 2025 Austin Marathon Gives program. Austin Marathon Gives is the Official Charity Program for the Austin Marathon®. Each non-profit will raise awareness for their mission and recruit runners to fundraise on their behalf while they train for the Austin Marathon, set to take place on Feb. 16, 2025 in downtown Austin, Texas.

For the 2025 event, 27 nonprofits have been accepted out of a competitive application process.

The selected charities are as follows:

  • Dell Children’s Medical Center
  • Austin Partners in Education
  • Odyssey School
  • Autism Society of Texas
  • Ghisallo Cycling Initiative
  • Austin Theatre Alliance – Paramount Theatres
  • Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas
  • Marathon Kids
  • CureDuchenne
  • Soccer Assist – Los Verdes
  • Sam’s Adventure Camp
  • Flatwater Foundation
  • Gazelle Foundation
  • GenerationSERVE
  • Back on My Feet
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
  • Texas 4000 for Cancer
  • Operation Get Out
  • U. R. Our Hope
  • Austin Wildlife Rescue
  • Austin Angels
  • Camp Kesem UT
  • Austin Parks Foundation
  • Gray for Glioblastoma
  • Upbring
  • Austin Child Guidance Center
  • Miracle Foundation

The Austin Marathon Gives program has been running for over a decade, evolving into one of the central elements of the event’s mission to give back to the community. The program connects runners, sponsors and supporters with local nonprofits encouraging participants to fundraise or donate directly to causes they care about.

Since its inception, the Austin Marathon Gives program has raised more $5.5 million for various charities in central Texas and beyond. “The program has grown in scope and impact, offering more opportunities for participants to get involved with charitable initiatives. Today, it is a key feature of the Austin Marathon, demonstrating the power of endurance sports to create positive change,” says Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events, the producers of the Austin Marathon.

Runners who want to support one of the Austin Marathon Gives non-profit partners can easily do so during the registration process for any race distance. By selecting a charity when they register, runners will receive a welcome email from the non-profit with details about the organization, how they’ll be supported throughout their training, and instructions on setting up a personal fundraising page to help reach their goals.

Additionally, individuals can support these charities by volunteering at one of the official AMG volunteer stations along the course on race day. Whether running the marathon, half marathon, or 5K, or volunteering, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. The program’s goal for 2025 is to raise $500,000 for these deserving organizations.  Registration is currently open for all three distances.

 

About the 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.

Chasing Global Glory: How to Qualify for the AbbottWMM Age Group World Championships

in

HOW IT WORKS

The AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel (MTT) Age Group World Rankings comprise over 375 qualifying races in over 90 different countries in which athletes in nine separate age groups can compete in marathons across the world to earn a global ranking.

Athletes will be ranked according to their single fastest time in a qualifying event.  This new system started in 2023 with great success.

Achieve the qualifying time for your Age Group and you’ll be in the first round of invites to secure your place for the 2026 AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Championships.

Runners who do not achieve the qualifying time can still receive an invitation to enter the World Championship depending on the full field size and the number of athletes achieving the qualifying time.

In order to receive an invitation, runners must be registered at AbbottWMM.com.

The date, location and field size for the 2026 AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Championships will be announced in due time.

Qualifying Times (*subject to change)

Age Group Male Female
40-44 02:35 03:05
45-49 02:42 03:13
50-54 02:48 03:21
55-59 02:57 03:34
60-64 03:10 03:49
65-69 03:26 04:12
70-74 03:40 04:35
75-79 04:06 05:15
80+ 04:40 05:30

As an FYI, qualifiers from the sixth edition of the rankings, which closes December 2024, will compete in the 2025 Championship, as part of the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. The invite process for this event will happen in early 2025.

The rankings cover age groups from 40 to 80+ for men and women as follows:

  • 40-44
  • 45-49
  • 50-54
  • 55-59
  • 60-64
  • 65-69
  • 70-74
  • 75-79
  • 80+

 

RANKING FAQs

How can I qualify for the 2026 championships?

There are three ways to qualify for the championships. Full details here
1. Achieve the qualifying time for your Age Group and you’ll be in the first round of invites to secure your place (see above for listed times).
2. Other highly ranked athletes without achieving the qualifying time may also receive an invitation (depending on the full field size and the number of athletes achieving the qualifying time).
3. The bi-annual AbbottWMM Global Marathon, held within the Global Run Club, has 200 places available for the fastest verified finishers. Visit the Global Run Club for full details.

 

Where and when are the 2026 Age Group World Championships?

The date, field size and location will be announced in due course.

 

What time do I have to run to qualify?

Your qualifying time is based on your age on race day of the qualifying event which you are taking part in. See above for the full list of qualifying times.

 

What happens if I change age group during the qualifying season?

You will only change age group if you have a time in one age group and then complete a race in your new age group. In this case, you will automatically move into the new age group and the time achieved in your new age group will be the time used for your ranking position. Note: we can restore your original age group’s result on request to results@wmmajors.com

 

What if I change age group after I have earned qualification?

Your age on World Championship race day will determine the age group you compete in.

 

What are the qualifying times?

Please see the table further up this page.

 

How can I get an invite if I don’t run the qualifying time?

Athletes in the rankings who have not achieved the qualifying time may receive an invitation based on the number of athletes who meet the qualifying times and do not take up their place. The number of athletes who receive invitations through this pathway will be determined during the rankings season.

Why are there no ranking points anymore?

We have changed the system to be based on time in order to reward the fastest athletes with standard championship qualification.

 

Is there a category in the rankings for non-binary athletes?

Currently there are not enough races which have non-binary categories with sufficient numbers to create meaningful competition and accordingly the AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Rankings and Championships are unable to offer a non-binary option for qualification. This will be kept under annual review.

 

CHAMPIONSHIPS

The 2024 AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Championships will take place within the 2024 TCS Sydney Marathon on September 15. Qualifying is now complete and eligible athletes have been contacted.

‍‍The 2024 rankings will contribute towards the 2025 Age Group World Championships, to be held within the TCS New York City Marathon.

Full results for past championships can be found here.