Why You Should Commit to the Austin Marathon Today (Not Tomorrow)

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Every runner has that moment: you’re hovering over the “Register Now” button, wondering if it’s the right time. Spoiler alert—it is! Whether you’re aiming for the full marathon, half, or 5K, there are some pretty compelling reasons to stop waiting and start committing. The Austin Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a journey. And the sooner you start, the better it gets.

1. 🗓️ Waiting Doesn’t Make It Easier—Starting Does

The truth? The perfect time will never magically appear. Life is always busy, but the sooner you sign up, the sooner you begin your mental and physical journey toward that finish line on Congress Avenue. Every day you wait is a day you could be building strength, confidence, and momentum.

2. 🎟️ Early Registration = Peace of Mind

Spots fill up, hotels get booked, and airfare prices rise. By committing now, you lock in the lowest rates and best accommodations—no scrambling later.

Bonus: planning early means you can snag that downtown hotel within walking distance of the start line.

3. 📢 Set Your 2026 Intentions Loud and Proud

Running the Austin Marathon is more than a fitness goal—it’s a statement. It’s about setting your sights high and chasing something big. Signing up early turns your intention into a plan and gives you something to train for, talk about, and look forward to in 2026.

4. 🌟 Stay Ahead of the Crowd

There’s something powerful about being an early bird. You’ll have more time to prepare, a smoother travel experience, and maybe even a better corral placement. Early registrants know: it pays to be first.

5. 🏅 Make the Austin Marathon Your “Why”

Committing to a race like this gives your daily runs real meaning. Suddenly, every hill repeat and tempo run has a purpose. And what better “why” than the electric energy of Austin’s streets, live music on course, and one of the most iconic finish lines in Texas?

✅ Time to Go All In

If you’re thinking about doing the Austin Marathon, you’re already halfway there. So don’t wait. Say yes to an unforgettable race, an unbeatable training journey, and one heck of a finish line party.

👉 Register now and let’s make 2026 your most epic race year yet.

Run Austin® 2026 Registration Launches May 12 with Exclusive Weeklong Incentives

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2026 Race Registration Opens with Special Offers During Run Austin® Launch Week

AUSTIN, Texas, May 5, 2025 —  Registration for the 2026 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K® officially opens on Monday, May 12, 2025, kicking off Run Austin® Launch Week. This week-long celebration will feature giveaways, local group runs, and exclusive promotions. For every race registration purchased during the launch week, the Austin Marathon will donate a race entry as part of their Run Forward Initiative, with the goal of donating up to 500 entries.

Thousands of runners from around the world are expected to take to the streets of downtown Austin for the 2026 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K, returning on Sunday, February 15.

“Launch Week is when the magic starts,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events, producers of the Austin Marathon and Austin International Half. “It’s about building momentum, connecting the running community, and creating something bigger than race day itself. Whether you’re chasing a PR or crossing your first-ever finish line, Launch Week is your invitation to get started.”

Throughout the week, runners can look forward to daily giveaways, exclusive offers, local group runs, and pop-up meetups featuring prizes and swag. Follow @AustinMarathon on Instagram for daily updates and behind-the-scenes fun. To get in on every deal and giveaway, be sure to join the mailing list for the event here.

The following is the list of activities during Launch Week:

Monday, May 12th

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 3 One on One Virtual Training Plans from The Run Plan  
  • Register to be entered to win 1 of 3 BPN Endurance Stacks.
  • Group Runs:
    • 7:00 AM GOOD GRiEF Running at Noble Joe’s Coffee – 1620 E Riverside Dr
    • 6:00 PM Austin Tri Club at Mean Eyed Cat – 1621 W 5th St
    • 6:30 PM Change Run Club at Aussie’s Grill & Beach Bar – 312 Barton Springs Rd

Tuesday, May 13th

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 10 SPIbelts.
  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 3 Race Photo Packages from FinisherPix.
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:00 AM Morning Jo’s at Jo’s Coffee – 1300 S Congress Ave
    • 7:00 PM RAW Running – Mean Eyed Cat 1621 W 5th St

Wednesday, May 14th

  • Register and be entered to win a Paramount Theatre Summer Film Package.
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:30 PM Cooldown Running at Barton Springs Saloon – 424 S Lamar Blvd.
    • 7:00 PM Body Art Run Club at Lift ATX – 1005 Springdale Rd Unit 3

Thursday, May 15th

  • Register and be entered to win a pair of tickets to Blast.TV Major 2025 on June 19th at the Moody Center courtesy of Austin Sports Commission. 
  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 2 Spurs ticket package giveaways courtesy of the Spurs Sports and Entertainment:
  • Group Runs: 
    • 5:55 AM Sunrise Track Club under MoPac Bridge – 2102 Stephen F Austin Dr.

Friday, May 16th

  • Register to be entered to win 1 of 3 Fleet Feet RUN AUSTIN prize packages 
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:30 AM Fleet Feet Social Run – 211 Walter Seaholm Dr

Saturday, May 17th  

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 2 pairs of entries to the Maudie’s Moonlight Run benefiting The Trail Conservancy on June 5th. 
  • Group Runs:
    • 5:00 AM Rise & Run South Austin at the Salty Donut – 2000 S Congress Ave. 
    • 5:45 AM Gilbert’s Gazelles in the plaza across from Mañana Dos – 111 Sandra Muraida Way
    • 7:00 AM ATX Runners at the Lady Bird Lake Trail 0 mile marker – 676 W Riverside Dr
    • 7:00 AM Saturday Run Club at Champion Park – 3830 Brushy Creek Rd
    • 7:00 AM Team FX Sunrise in the Hills at Muleshore – 2820 County Road 414, Spicewood
    • 7:00 AM Twenty-Six Two Marathon Club at JLL Plaza – 1703 West 5th St
    • 8:00 AM Euphoria Run Club at Noble Joe’s Coffee – 1620 E Riverside Dr
    • 8:00 AM Phoenix Rising Running at Austin High School – 1715 W Cesar Chavez St
    • 9:00 AM 39ERS at Padel39 – 2510 Rutland Dr

Sunday, May 18th

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 3 Fogo de Chao $150 gift cards.
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:00 AM Buda Running Club – 214 Main Street, Buda
    • 7:30 AM ATX Run Divas at Cosmic Saltillo – 1300 E 4th St
    • 7:30 AM Rise & Run South Austin at Opa! Coffee and Wine – 2050 S Lamar Blvd
    • 8:00 AM Plant Powered Athlete at Vegan Nom Food Park – 2324 E Cesar Chavez St

Monday, May 19th

  • Register and be entered to win 2 tickets to an ACL Live show of your choice courtesy of PNC Bank.
  • Group Runs:
    • 7:00 AM GOOD GRiEF Running at Noble Joe’s Coffee – 1620 E Riverside Dr
    • 6:00 PM Austin Tri Club at Mean Eyed Cat – 1621 W 5th St
    • 6:30 PM Change Run Club at ATX AKtIV – 2307 Thornton Road

The initial pricing structure is offered during Launch Week of May 12-19 and is as follows: Austin Marathon $139, Austin Half Marathon $119, Austin Marathon 5K $59. Registration is available here. During Launch Week, participants will also have the option to add the 2026 Austin International Half —for just $99 as part of a limited-time combo deal, saving 10% off the standard price. Prices for all events increase after May 19. 

In addition, the Austin Marathon is proud to honor Non-Profit Employees with a discounted 50% off rate; those eligible can apply for the discount here. 

The 2026 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, and promises another unforgettable weekend. Participants will enjoy a premium swag bag and a signature belt buckle finisher medal, plus a fully supported course with 22 aid stations, live music throughout the route, and a finish line festival featuring a beer garden and local vendors. With a start and finish in downtown Austin—just blocks apart and steps away from the city’s best attractions and the iconic Texas State Capitol—the Austin Marathon delivers an event experience like no other.

If you are interested in hosting a group run in your town please email info@youraustinmarathon.com to get added to the official launch week calendar. 

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.

Register for the Austin Marathon with Affirm: Flexible Payment Options!

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Why You Should Run in the Rain

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Running in the rain might sound miserable at first, but hear us out: it can actually be one of the most refreshing, rewarding, and memorable workouts you’ll ever have. Whether you’re training for the Austin Marathon or just want to spice up your usual routine, here’s why you should embrace those rainy-day runs.

1. Build Mental Toughness

When you head out for a run despite gloomy weather, you’re training more than just your legs—you’re strengthening your mindset. Overcoming discomfort prepares you to push through challenges on race day. If you can conquer wind, rain, and wet socks, you can conquer 26.2 miles.

2. Cool and Comfortable Conditions

Rain often means cooler temperatures, which can make for an unexpectedly pleasant run. Without the Texas sun blazing down, you’ll stay cooler longer and might even set a new personal best.

3. Fewer Crowds

Rainy days tend to keep most people indoors, meaning you’ll have trails, parks, or your favorite running routes practically to yourself. No weaving through crowds, just you and the open road.

4. Boost Your Confidence

Running in less-than-ideal conditions shows you can adapt and thrive no matter what race day throws your way. Whether it’s unexpected drizzle or a full-on downpour, you’ll be ready to face it head-on.

5. It’s Fun (Yes, Really!)

There’s something oddly freeing about splashing through puddles and embracing the chaos of a rainy run. Channel your inner kid, let go of expectations, and enjoy the moment.

Rain-Running Tips for Success

  • Dress Smart: Wear moisture-wicking fabrics and a lightweight, breathable rain jacket to stay comfortable.
  • Mind Your Feet: Opt for shoes with solid traction to reduce slips. A layer of Vaseline or Body Glide on your feet can help prevent blisters.
  • Watch Out for Road Markings: Painted lines and other road markings can become especially slippery when wet.
  • Tell Someone Your Plans: Always let someone know where you plan on running and how long you expect to be gone. You can also share your location for added safety.
  • Protect Your Electronics: Use a waterproof phone case or plastic bag to keep your gear dry.
  • Be Visible: Rain can reduce visibility, so wear bright colors or reflective gear to stay safe.
  • Dry Your Shoes Properly: After your run, stuff your shoes with a towel or newspaper to help them dry faster and keep their shape.

Embrace the Rain, Embrace the Challenge

Next time the clouds roll in, don’t retreat to the treadmill—get out there and embrace the rain. It’s one more way to build strength, endurance, and resilience on your journey to race day. Plus, it makes that post-run hot shower feel even more amazing.

Run Austin®, rain or shine.