More Than $6 Million Raised for Central Texas Nonprofits

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, set for President’s Day weekend on February 15, 2026, proudly announces the continued partnership with the Moody Foundation as the presenting partner of Austin Marathon Gives, the event’s Official Charity Program. Entering its 11th year, the partnership has generated more than $6 million in support of Central Texas nonprofits and will once again aim to raise $1 million during the 2026 event.

Since its inception, Austin Marathon Gives has connected runners with meaningful causes, empowering participants to fundraise on behalf of organizations making a tangible impact across the region. With the Moody Foundation’s ongoing support and generous donation matching, the program continues to grow in both scale and community reach.

“Austin Marathon Gives is a powerful example of how this community comes together—turning personal passion into collective impact. We’re proud to continue partnering with the Austin Marathon to support Central Texas nonprofits and to help ensure that every mile run translates into meaningful support for organizations doing vital work across our region,” said Ross Moody, trustee, Moody Foundation.

Based in Galveston, Texas, the Moody Foundation has a long-standing legacy of supporting initiatives that strengthen communities across the state. Through its continued matching of funds raised via Austin Marathon Gives, the foundation advances one of its core focus areas—community development—while helping nonprofits expand their reach and impact.

“Austin Marathon Gives has become a cornerstone of what this event represents,” said Jack Murray, Co-Owner of the Austin Marathon. “The Moody Foundation’s partnership elevates the entire experience for our runners and our nonprofit partners. Together, we’ve built a program that turns miles into meaningful change, and we’re excited to see what we can accomplish in 2026.”

Through Austin Marathon Gives, registered participants can select an official nonprofit during race registration and fundraise leading up to race day. Each participating charity engages directly with runners, offering mission-driven inspiration, training encouragement, and fundraising support. To further amplify these efforts, the Moody Foundation will match fundraising totals for each official charity up to $10,000.

With a fundraising goal of $1,000,000 for the 2026 event, Austin Marathon Gives remains committed to supporting organizations that strengthen health, education, housing, and social services throughout Central Texas.

Runners who are already registered can get involved by visiting the Run for Charity page on the Austin Marathon website. Participants may select a nonprofit, create a personalized fundraising page to share with friends and family, or make a one-time donation directly to an official Austin Marathon Gives charity.

For more information about Austin Marathon Gives or to register for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, visit our website.

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.

About the Moody Foundation: 

The Moody Foundation was established by W.L. Moody, Jr. and Libbie Shearn Moody in 1942 to share their good fortune and make a difference in the lives of the people of Texas. Since then, the Foundation has pledged and awarded more than $2.5 billion in grants throughout the state to organizations that have educated, healed, nurtured and inspired generations of Texans. The Moody Foundation continues with a board of three trustees: Frances Moody-Dahlberg, Ross Moody and Elizabeth “Elle” Moody. Learn more at MoodyF.org 

Running the Austin Marathon or Half Marathon is an exciting challenge, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned runner. One of the most important factors for a successful race day is pacing. Here’s how you can pace yourself for the best experience and results on Austin’s unique course.

1. Know the Course

Austin’s course is known for its rolling hills, scenic downtown views, and enthusiastic crowd support. Study the course map ahead of time and note where the hills and flat sections are. Plan to conserve energy on the uphills and take advantage of the downhills.

2. Set a Realistic Goal

Base your goal pace on your recent training runs and races. Use a pace calculator to estimate your finish time, and be honest about your fitness level. Remember, Austin’s hills can slow you down, so factor that into your goal.

3. Start Slow

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement at the start line, but going out too fast can lead to burnout later. Aim to run the first few miles slightly slower than your goal pace. This will help you conserve energy for the tougher miles ahead.

4. Use Mile Markers and Splits

Break the race into smaller segments. Focus on reaching each mile marker at your planned split time. Many runners use a GPS watch or a pace band to stay on track. If you fall behind, don’t panic—adjust your pace gradually rather than trying to make up all the time at once.

5. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how you feel throughout the race. If you’re breathing too hard or your legs feel heavy early on, slow down. Hydrate at aid stations and take in nutrition as you’ve practiced during training.

6. Adjust for the Weather

Austin weather can be unpredictable in February. If it’s warmer or more humid than expected, slow your pace slightly to avoid overheating. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

7. Finish Strong

If you’ve paced yourself well, you’ll have energy left for the final miles. Use the crowd’s energy as you approach the finish line and give it your all in the last stretch.

Final Tips

• Practice your goal pace during training runs.
• Don’t try anything new on race day—stick to your tried-and-true gear and nutrition.
• Enjoy the experience and celebrate your accomplishment!

Pacing is both an art and a science. With preparation and smart strategy, you’ll cross the Austin Marathon or Half Marathon finish line feeling strong and proud.