Official Nonprofits Selected for 2024 Austin Marathon

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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 2024 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. 18, 2024.

This year, 28 nonprofits have been accepted out of numerous applications. The selected charities are as follows: Dell Children’s Medical Center, Austin Partners in Education, Odyssey School, Blue Dog Rescue, Autism Society of Texas, Ghisallo Cycling Initiative, Austin Achieve Public Schools, Austin Theatre Alliance – Paramount Theatres, Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas, Livestrong Foundation, Marathon Kids, Inc., Soccer Assist – Los Verdes, Sam’s Adventure Camp, Flatwater Foundation, Gazelle Foundation, GenerationSERVE, Back on My Feet, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Texas 4000, Operation Get Out, People’s Community Clinic, U. R. Our Hope, Austin Wildlife Rescue, Austin Angels, Camp Kesem UT, Austin Parks Foundation, Gray for Glioblastoma, and Upbring.

Runners interested in supporting any of the non-profits’ missions while they train can select the organization’s name during the registration process for their preferred distance.. The runner will be contacted by the non-profit with a welcome email, including more about their organization, how they will be supported during their training, and how they can create their fundraising page to begin fundraising.

Another way to support these charities is through volunteering at their official AMG volunteer position along the course on race day. This option along with the ability to register for any distance including the full marathon, half marathon, or 5K allows for more individuals to take part in the experience of the event while supporting their favorite Austin Marathon Gives charity. The program’s fundraising goal for 2024 is $500,000.

About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: The Austin Marathon® will celebrate its 33rd year running in Austin on February 18, 2024. Austin’s flagship running event annually attracts runners from all 50 states and 30+ countries around the world. With start and finish locations just a few blocks apart, and within walking distance of many downtown hotels and restaurants, the Austin Marathon is the perfect running weekend destination. Participants can register on the website and choose to run for their preferred nonprofit.

Austin’s Picture-Perfect Spots: The 5 Most Gram-Worthy Places

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Austin, Texas is a city bursting with character and charm, and it’s no surprise that the capital of the Lone Star State offers a plethora of Instagram-worthy locations. From scenic outdoor wonders to colorful murals and cultural hotspots, Austin has it all. In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the five most Instagram-worthy places in Austin, ensuring your feed is filled with unforgettable moments.

Colorful graffiti wall with green dragon mural


1. Graffiti Park at Castle Hill

Location: 1008 Baylor St

Graffiti Park at Castle Hill, often referred to as the Hope Outdoor Gallery, is a vibrant outdoor art installation where ever-changing murals provide an ever-evolving backdrop for your photos. Capture the creative spirit of Austin in one of the city’s most iconic street art spots.

Couple kissing on cliff overlooking lake


2. Mount Bonnell

Location: 3800 Mt Bonnell Rd

For breathtaking views of Austin and the Colorado River, hike up Mount Bonnell, the city’s highest point. The vistas from the top offer stunning scenery, making it a prime spot for sunset and sunrise photos.

 

 

Swimmers in clear turquoise river by trees
3. Barton Springs Pool

Location: 2131 William Barton Dr

A dip in Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool, is an Austin tradition. Capture the crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery, and don’t forget to snap a selfie under the iconic diving board.

Greetings from Austin mural, Texas Capitol


4. The Greetings from Austin Mural

Location: 1512 S 1st St

This mural is a must-visit and an Austin classic. The “Greetings from Austin” mural is a vibrant postcard-like mural that represents the heart and soul of the city. Pose in front of the mural for a quintessential Austin photo op.

Woman on balcony overlooking turquoise bay and hills
5. The Oasis on Lake Travis

Location: 6550 Comanche Trail

Enjoy lakeside dining at The Oasis on Lake Travis and capture the enchanting view of Lake Travis, especially during sunset. The restaurant’s multi-level decks provide an idyllic setting for sunset photos with a Texan twist.

 

 


Whether you’re a local or visiting Austin, these five Instagram-worthy spots are the perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of this vibrant city. From colorful murals to scenic overlooks and iconic landmarks, Austin offers a treasure trove of picture-perfect locations to enhance your Instagram feed with memorable moments.

Austin’s Sizzling Slices: The Top 10 Pizza Places in the Capital City

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Austin is renowned for its diverse and vibrant food scene, and when it comes to pizza, this city truly delivers. With a plethora of pizzerias scattered across town, it’s a pizza lover’s paradise. We’ve curated a list of the top pizza places in Austin, ensuring you experience the best slices the city has to offer.

1. Home Slice Pizza

Location: 1415 South Congress Ave

Nestled on the iconic South Congress Avenue, Home Slice Pizza is a local favorite. Their New York-style pizza is known for its delicious thin crust, generous toppings, and authentic flavor that transports you to the streets of NYC.

2. Pinthouse Pizza

Location: Multiple locations including Burnet Road and South Lamar Blvd

Pinthouse Pizza combines craft beer and artisan pizza to create a unique dining experience. With a variety of creative and classic pizzas, it’s an ideal spot to savor both fantastic brews and mouthwatering pies.

3. Via 313

Location: Multiple locations including Rainey Street and Oak Hill

Via 313 has become an Austin institution. Their Detroit-style pizza, with its crispy cheese-encrusted edges and a variety of mouthwatering toppings, is a must-try for any pizza connoisseur.

4. Bufalina

Location: 1519 East Cesar Chavez St

Bufalina offers Neapolitan-style pizza with a focus on using high-quality, local ingredients. Their thin, wood-fired pizzas are known for their simplicity and incredible flavors.

5. East Side Pies

Location: Multiple locations including Airport Blvd and West Anderson Lane

East Side Pies has earned a reputation for its creativity and wide array of toppings. They offer both classic and vegan pizza options to cater to a diverse range of tastes.

6. 40 North

Location: 900 W 10th St

40 North is a gem in the heart of Austin. Their wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas are prepared with precision, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.

7. The Backspace

Location: 507 San Jacinto Blvd

Tucked away in downtown Austin, The Backspace specializes in handcrafted Neapolitan-style pizzas and delectable antipasti.

8. The ABGB (Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co.)

Location: 1305 W Oltorf St

Known for their artisanal beer and delicious pizza, The ABGB is a local hangout spot offering thin-crust pies with imaginative toppings.

With these top 8 pizza places in Austin, you’re in for an exciting culinary adventure. Whether you prefer traditional New York slices, inventive Neapolitan-style pies, or crave something as unique as Detroit-style pizza, Austin’s pizza scene has something to satisfy every pizza lover’s cravings. Get ready to embark on a delectable journey through Austin’s finest pizzerias!

Your Journey Begins: Preparing for Your First 5K

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Running your first 5K can be an exhilarating adventure that sets the stage for your future in the world of running. Whether it’s a personal goal, a fitness challenge, or just an opportunity to embrace a healthy lifestyle, the Austin Marathon invites you to lace up your running shoes and take that first step towards your 5K finish line. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to prepare for your inaugural 5K race.

1. Set Clear Goals

Begin your journey by setting specific and attainable goals. Whether you aim to complete the 5K, achieve a certain time, or simply enjoy the experience, defining your objectives will provide a sense of purpose throughout your training.

2. Get the Right Gear

Proper footwear and comfortable attire are essential. Invest in a good pair of running shoes that suit your foot type and visit a specialty running store for expert advice, we recommend going to Fleet Feet Austin. Dress in moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry and comfortable during your training.

3. Create a Training Plan

A structured training plan will help you gradually build your endurance and confidence. Start with a walk/run program, and over time, increase your running intervals while reducing walking periods. The goal is to be able to run the entire 5K distance comfortably.

4. Cross-Train and Rest

Incorporate cross-training activities like swimming, cycling, or strength training to prevent overuse injuries and improve your overall fitness. Rest days are crucial for recovery, so don’t forget to schedule them into your training plan.

5. Nutrition and Hydration

Maintain a balanced diet to fuel your workouts. Consume a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, and stay hydrated. Experiment with pre-race nutrition to determine what works best for you.

6. Join a Running Group

Running with a group can provide motivation, camaraderie, and valuable insights. Join a local running club or participate in community fun runs to connect with other runners and share your journey.

7. Register for Your 5K

Once you’ve built up your training and feel confident in your ability to complete the 5K distance, it’s time to register for the race. Signing up will give you a tangible goal to work toward.

8. Visualize Success

Mental preparation is just as important as physical training. Visualize yourself crossing the 5K finish line, imagining the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that comes with it.

9. Race Day Prep

On the day of your 5K, arrive early, warm up, and stay hydrated. Trust your training, maintain a comfortable pace, and remember to enjoy the experience.

10. Celebrate Your Achievement

After completing your first 5K, take a moment to savor your accomplishment. Whether you achieved your time goal or simply finished the race, celebrating your achievement is well-deserved.

Participating in your first 5K can be an incredible milestone on your running journey. The Austin Marathon encourages you to embrace the challenge, savor the experience, and embark on a path towards a healthier, active lifestyle. Whether you choose to run a 5K for fun, for fitness, or to test your limits, your first 5K race is a momentous occasion to be celebrated and cherished.