BURLEBO Named Official Marathon Finisher Hoodie of the 2027 Austin Marathon

in

2027 marathon finishers will receive a premium BURLEBO hoodie as commemorative finisher apparel

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K announced today a new partnership with Texas-based outdoor and lifestyle apparel brand BURLEBO, naming the company the Official Marathon Finisher Hoodie of the 2027 event.

As part of the partnership, every full marathon runner who crosses the finish line of the 2027 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon on February 14th will receive a premium BURLEBO performance hoodie as their official commemorative marathon finisher apparel.

The partnership brings together two brands with deep Texas roots and a shared appreciation for adventure, community, and taking on meaningful challenges. For marathon participants, the premium hoodie will provide a distinctive and functional keepsake recognizing the months of preparation and 26.2-mile journey through the streets of Austin.

“Crossing the Austin Marathon finish line is an accomplishment that deserves something special,” said Megan Frausto, Strategic Partnership Manager of the Austin Marathon. “We wanted to elevate the traditional marathon finisher shirt and give our athletes something they’ll want to wear long after they cross the finish line. BURLEBO is a Texas brand that embodies an active, adventurous lifestyle, making them a natural partner to help us celebrate our marathon finishers.”

Founded in Texas, BURLEBO has built a loyal following through versatile apparel designed for people who embrace the outdoors, adventure, and an active lifestyle. The collaboration with the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon extends that philosophy to the running community and one of Texas’ premier endurance events.

“Austin is home for BURLEBO, so being part of the Austin Marathon feels like a true home-team moment for us. This city has played such a meaningful role in shaping who we are, both as a brand and as a company, and we’re proud to show up for the community that has supported us along the way. The energy, grit, and sense of community that make race weekend so special are a reflection of what we love about Austin and what BURLEBO stands for. We’re excited to cheer on our city and be part of a weekend that celebrates everything Austin stands for.” — Trey Wier, Founder & CEO, BURLEBO

The BURLEBO finisher hoodie will be reserved for registered athletes who complete the full 26.2-mile marathon, creating an exclusive piece of apparel that represents membership in the 2027 Austin Marathon finisher community.

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K will take place Sunday, February 14, 2027, bringing thousands of runners to the streets of Austin for a weekend that showcases the city’s energy, neighborhoods, and running community. Registration and additional event information can be found here.

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 BURLEBO: BURLEBO is an Austin-based lifestyle brand built for the athlete, for the outdoors and for the family. What began as a small family business has grown into a fully developed lifestyle brand, designing and manufacturing apparel and accessories ranging from performance wear to everyday essentials. Built on values of quality, authenticity and a commitment to its customers, BURLEBO creates products designed to bring the spirit of the outdoors into everyday life.

RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week Sets the Pace for Austin’s 2027 Training Season

in

Ascension Seton Austin Marathon and Spurs Austin International Half bring the running community together September 8–15

 

Austin’s 2027 training season officially starts with RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week, returning September 8–15 for eight days of group runs, giveaways, community activations, and opportunities to get moving across the city.

Hosted by the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K and Spurs Austin International Half, RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week brings together runners, run clubs, local businesses, and event partners to celebrate the start of the journey toward two of Austin’s largest running events.

The week builds momentum toward the Spurs Austin International Half on January 17, 2027, and the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K on February 14, 2027.

Throughout Kickoff Week, runners of all experience levels can take part in 40 free group runs hosted by clubs and organizations throughout Austin. The schedule gives participants opportunities to find a new running group, meet others in the community, and start building toward their 2027 goals.

The celebration extends beyond the miles. RUN AUSTIN® will host giveaways throughout the week featuring over $4,000 in prizes from event partners, along with special community activations, including free snow cones on the Lady Bird Lake Trail on Saturday, September 12.

“RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week is our way of bringing the entire Austin running community together at the start of a new season,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events, producers of both events. “There is so much energy around running in this city, and Kickoff Week gives everyone a chance to be part of it. You can find a group, set a goal, meet new people, and start getting excited about what’s ahead in January and February.”

Ascension Seton will once again support RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week as part of its continued commitment to promoting health, wellness, and active lifestyles throughout Central Texas.

“RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week is a great opportunity to bring people together around movement, health, and community,” said Adam Bauman, Vice President Orthopedics, Sports, & Event Medicine Services of Ascension Seton. “Ascension Seton is proud to support an event that encourages people to get active, connect with others, and work toward their goals. We’re excited to be part of the journey as runners across Austin begin preparing for the 2027 season.”

RUN AUSTIN® Kickoff Week is open to the Austin running community. A full schedule of group runs, giveaways, special events, and participating partners will be available at WeRunAustin.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.

 

About the Spurs Austin International Half: The Spurs Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, is one of Texas’ fastest and most exciting 13.1-mile events. Established in 1995, it features a net-downhill course that winds through Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods and finishes downtown. Runners enjoy a high-energy experience with live music, enthusiastic spectators, and top-tier course support. With PR potential, great swag, and an unbeatable Austin vibe, this event welcomes runners of all levels. 

 

About Run Austin®: Run Austin® is the official trademark uniting two of Austin’s premier running events: the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon and the Spurs Austin International Half. Created to celebrate the city’s vibrant running culture, Run Austin showcases the spirit, energy, and diversity of the Austin running community. With world-class event experiences, scenic courses, and strong community engagement, Run Austin represents the best of endurance sport in one of the nation’s most active cities. Learn more at AustinMarathon.com and AustinInternationalHalf.com

Long Run Strategy: How to Fuel and Pace Like a Pro

in

The long run is the backbone of every marathon training plan. But logging miles alone won’t get you across the finish line on Congress Avenue feeling strong. How you fuel and pace those weekend efforts determines whether race day is a breakthrough or a bonk.

Whether you’re training for the full Austin Marathon or the Austin Half Marathon on February 15, 2027, dialing in your long run strategy now (yes, even in August) gives you months to practice, adjust, and build confidence before the starting gun fires on South Congress.

A woman in athletic wear jogs along a paved road at sunset, surrounded by greenery and trees, smiling as she enjoys the uplifting benefits of running for her mental health. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KWhy Your Long Run Strategy Matters More Than Your Mileage

Most runners focus on hitting a weekly mileage number. But a 16-mile run done at the wrong pace with no fueling plan teaches your body the wrong lessons. Your long runs should simulate race day conditions so nothing on February 15 feels unfamiliar.

A proper long run strategy trains three systems at once:

  1. Your aerobic engine — building endurance at a sustainable effort
  2. Your gut — adapting to take in calories while running
  3. Your mind — proving to yourself that the distance is manageable

A person in athletic clothes jogs alone on an empty road, likely focused on base building for marathon training, with road signs ahead and trees in the background. The calm scene suggests early-morning running preparation. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KHow to Pace Your Long Runs

The golden rule: Most long runs should be 60 to 90 seconds per mile slower than your goal marathon pace.

If you’re targeting a 4:00 marathon (roughly 9:09/mile), your long runs should feel comfortable at 10:00 to 10:40 per mile. It will feel slow. That’s the point.

Pacing tips for Austin’s course:

  • The first 10 miles of the Austin Marathon roll through downtown and South Austin with gentle inclines. Practice running easy on slight hills rather than surging.
  • Miles 16 to 20 hit the steepest terrain through Tarrytown and Exposition. Save energy early so you can maintain effort here.
  • The final 10K is mostly flat or downhill back to the Capitol. This is where smart early pacing pays off.

When to run at race pace: One long run every 2 to 3 weeks can include a “fast finish” segment: run the last 3 to 6 miles at or near goal pace. This teaches your legs to push when fatigued without thrashing your body every weekend.

A man in sporty attire and sunglasses is on a running track, squeezing and drinking from a yellow energy gel pack—a perfect snapshot of marathon training. Trees and a clear sky are visible in the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KHow to Fuel Your Long Runs

Before the run:

Eat a simple, carb-rich meal 2 to 3 hours before (oatmeal, toast with peanut butter, a banana). Aim for 200 to 300 calories. Avoid high-fat or high-fiber foods that cause GI distress mid-run.

During the run:

  • Under 60 minutes: Water is enough.
  • 60 to 90 minutes: Start sipping a sports drink or take one gel.
  • Over 90 minutes: Aim for 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. This can come from gels, chews, sports drink, or real food like dates or pretzels.

The most important rule: Practice your race day nutrition on every long run over 90 minutes. Your stomach needs training just like your legs. If a gel makes you nauseous at mile 12 in training, you’ll know to switch products before race day, not during it.

Hydration:

Drink to thirst, roughly 4 to 8 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes depending on heat and sweat rate. Austin in February is mild (average highs near 60°F), but if you’re training through a Texas summer, you’ll need significantly more fluid and electrolytes now.

A Sample Long Run Fueling Timeline

Timing Action
2–3 hours before 200–300 cal meal (mostly carbs)
15 min before 8–12 oz water
Every 30–45 min during 1 gel or equivalent (25–30g carbs)
Every 15–20 min during 4–8 oz water or electrolyte drink
Immediately after Recovery snack with carbs + protein

Hand writing "COMMON MISTAKES" in notebookCommon Long Run Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Starting too fast. If your first mile is your fastest, you went out too hard.
  2. Skipping fuel because “it’s only 10 miles.” Anything over 75 minutes deserves practice nutrition.
  3. Trying new products on race day. The Austin Marathon aid stations will have specific fuel available. Train with it or bring your own.
  4. Ignoring the heat. Summer long runs in Austin require extra hydration and possibly a slower pace. Adjust expectations and save your race-pace efforts for cooler mornings.

A person uses a stylus to check off items on a digital checklist labeled "PLAN" displayed on a tablet screen, focusing attention on marathon training and running preparation. The blurred background emphasizes the planning activity. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KBuild Your Strategy Before Race Day

The Austin Marathon on February 15, 2027 gives you a perfect timeline: start building your fueling and pacing habits now during base training, refine them through fall as mileage peaks, and arrive at the start line on Congress Avenue knowing exactly what works for your body.

Ready to put your long run strategy to the test? Register for the Austin Marathon or Half Marathon and start training with purpose.

FAQ: Long Run Fueling and Pacing

How many miles should my longest long run be before a marathon?

Most plans peak at 18 to 22 miles, typically 2 to 3 weeks before race day. For the Austin Marathon on February 15, your longest run would fall in late January.

What should I eat during a long run?

Aim for 30 to 60 grams of carbs per hour after the first 60 minutes. Gels, chews, sports drinks, and real food all work. The best option is whatever your stomach tolerates at pace.

How slow should my long runs be?

60 to 90 seconds per mile slower than your marathon goal pace. Easy enough to hold a conversation.

Should I drink water or sports drink on long runs?

Both. Water for hydration, sports drink for electrolytes and additional carbs. On runs over 90 minutes, an electrolyte drink helps replace sodium lost through sweat.

When should I start practicing race day nutrition?

Immediately. Every long run over 90 minutes is an opportunity to test timing, products, and quantities so nothing is new on race day.

Don’t Wait: Why Summer Is the Smartest Time to Commit to February

in

You’re six months out from the 2027 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon on February 14. And right now, while the Texas heat has most people thinking about anything except running 26.2 miles, the smartest runners are already making their move.

Not with mileage. With a decision.

Committing to a February race in the summer isn’t just early. It’s strategic. Here’s why the runners who register now consistently outperform the ones who “wait and see.”

A large crowd of runners smiles and cheers at the starting line of the Austin Marathon & Half Marathon in February, with a green event banner overhead and city buildings in the background, all ready to commit to an inspiring race journey. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KWhy Should I Register for a Marathon Months in Advance?

The short answer: because the race starts long before the start line.

When you register in August instead of November, you’re giving yourself something most runners underestimate: time to build a foundation. A 16-week structured training plan for a February 14 race day doesn’t begin until late October. But the runners who show up to Week 1 with a consistent base already built? They’re the ones who cross the finish line on Congress Avenue feeling strong instead of surviving.

Summer is your pre-training window. It’s when you build the aerobic base, the habit of showing up, and the mental identity of someone who’s already committed.

 

A person in a gray bat costume with large purple ears and blue accents points toward the camera, wearing an Austin Marathon Half Marathon T-shirt at an outdoor February event, ready to commit to the race season ahead. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KWhat Are the Benefits of Registering for the Austin Marathon Early?

1. You Lock In the Best Price

Marathon registration pricing works like airline tickets: the earlier you book, the less you pay. Current pricing won’t last forever, and every tier increase is money you could’ve spent on new shoes or race-week brunch on South Congress.

2. You Create Accountability That Actually Works

Here’s the psychology: once you’ve paid and committed, your brain shifts from “maybe I’ll run a marathon” to “I’m training for a marathon.” That identity shift changes everything. It’s why you’ll choose the 6 AM alarm over the snooze button. It’s why the Tuesday tempo run stops being optional.

Research consistently shows that public commitment and financial investment are two of the strongest predictors of goal follow-through. Registration is both.

3. You Get the Full Training Timeline

Runners who register in October or November are already behind. They’re scrambling to find a plan, cramming base miles into a compressed window, and skipping the gradual progression that prevents injury. You? You’ll have months of consistent movement under your belt before structured training even starts.

4. You Join the Community Earlier

The Austin Marathon isn’t just a race. It’s a running community that activates months before February. Group runs, training partners, local running crews, the Teams Program: all of it is more accessible when you’re in early. The longer you’re plugged in, the more support you have when the long runs get real.

 

Three smiling runners pose outdoors in the summer sun, each holding a race medal. They wear athletic gear and sunglasses, proudly showing their commit to fitness with a blurred crowd and building in the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KIs Summer Too Early to Start Training for a February Marathon?

Not if you think about it correctly.

Summer isn’t the time for 20-mile long runs or aggressive speed work in 100°F heat. It’s the time for consistency: easy miles, cross-training, building the routine. Think of it as the pre-season before the season.

Here’s a smart summer framework:

  • 3–4 runs per week at easy, conversational pace
  • Cross-training (swimming, cycling, strength work) to build durability
  • Heat adaptation that will make fall training feel effortless by comparison
  • Habit stacking: pairing your runs with existing routines so they stick

When your 16-week plan kicks off in late October, you won’t be starting from zero. You’ll be starting from ready.

 

Three smiling runners in orange shirts pose at a race finish line, wearing sunglasses and race bibs. One gives a thumbs-up. Their shirts read, “I THOUGHT THIS WAS A BAR CRAWL?” Colorful event banners are in the background, capturing the lively spirit of a summer run and celebrating their commitment to finishing strong. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KHow Do I Know If I’m Ready to Commit to a Marathon?

If you’re asking the question, you’re closer than you think.

You don’t need to be fast. You don’t need to have run a marathon before. You don’t even need to be “in shape” right now. What you need is six months and a willingness to show up more days than you don’t.

The 2027 Austin Marathon offers the full marathon, half marathon, and 5K, so there’s a distance for wherever you are today. And with the Austin running community behind you, you won’t be figuring it out alone.

 

The Real Cost of Waiting

Let’s be honest about what “I’ll decide later” actually means:

  • Higher registration fees
  • Less time to build your base
  • A compressed, higher-risk training window
  • Missing out on months of community connection
  • Staying in “thinking about it” mode instead of doing mode

Every week you wait is a week of momentum you don’t get back.

Ready to Commit?

The 2027 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is February 14, 2027. Registration is open now. The price is the lowest it’s going to be, your training window is wide open, and your future self will thank you for making this decision today instead of tomorrow.

Register for the 2027 Austin Marathon →

Summer is when champions decide. February is when they celebrate.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2027 Austin Marathon?

The 2027 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K takes place on Sunday, February 14, 2027, in downtown Austin, TX.

When should I start training for a February marathon?

A standard 16-week training plan for a February 14 race starts in late October. However, building a running base in summer (June–September) significantly improves your readiness and reduces injury risk.

Is it too early to register for the Austin Marathon in summer?

No. Registering early locks in the lowest pricing, creates accountability, and gives you maximum time to prepare physically and mentally.

Can beginners run the Austin Marathon?

Absolutely. The event offers a full marathon, half marathon, and 5K. Many first-time runners use the extended training window to build up gradually and cross the finish line feeling strong.