Official Nonprofits Selected for 2025 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 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

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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 [email protected]

 

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.

Run Austin® Kickoff Week Ignites the Running Community in the Heart of Texas

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Get ready for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon® and Austin International Half Marathon with exciting updates for the 2025 races! Enjoy refreshed courses with new scenic views, enhanced aid stations, and engaging training programs. Join us at the Interactive Race Expo and Festival for gear tests and fun activities.

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Beyond Running: How to Stay Active and Crush Your Marathon Goals

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Preparing for the Austin Marathon is an exciting journey, and staying active is key to crossing that finish line with a smile. While running is the main dish, think of these other activities as the perfect sides that’ll keep you strong, balanced, and ready for race day. Let’s explore different ways to stay active while you prepare for the big event!

 

A person wearing a helmet rides a mountain bike on a gravel path, staying active and focused on their marathon goals. They are outdoors with tall grass by the roadside and a scenic view of mountains and a clear sky in the background. The rider is dressed in a sleeveless shirt and shorts. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

1. Cross-Training

Cross-training is like giving your running muscles a well-deserved break while still working on your fitness. Cycling, swimming, or even rowing can boost your cardiovascular endurance without the repetitive impact of running. Plus, Austin’s gorgeous weather makes it easy to enjoy a bike ride around Lady Bird Lake or a swim at Barton Springs Pool.

 

 

 

A woman wearing a grey sports bra lifts a pair of black dumbbells in a gym. The background is blurred, focusing the image on her arm and the weights. The scene is bright with natural light coming from the windows, perfectly capturing her dedication to stay active and achieve her marathon goals. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

2. Strength Training

Building strength is crucial for improving your running performance and preventing injuries. Focus on exercises that target your core, legs, and upper body. Squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups can be done at home or at your local gym. Consider hitting up an outdoor workout space like the ones in Pease Park or Butler Park for a change of scenery.

 

 

 

Three people are in a yoga class performing the child's pose on their mats. The room has a wooden floor, and the individuals are in comfortable clothing, stretching their arms forward with their foreheads touching the ground—prepping mind and body to stay active for marathon goals ahead. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

3. Yoga and Stretching

Running can make your muscles tight, so yoga and regular stretching sessions are a must. Yoga helps improve flexibility, balance, and mental focus—all of which are beneficial on race day. Check out a local studio like Black Swan Yoga, or enjoy some outdoor yoga at Zilker Park. A simple post-run stretching routine can also do wonders to keep you limber.

 

 

 

Close-up view of a person running uphill on a rocky, forested trail. The runner is wearing black shorts and red running shoes. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path as they pursue their marathon goals. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

4. Trail Running

Switching up your running surface by hitting the trails is a great way to stay active while challenging your body in new ways. The uneven terrain of Austin’s trails, like the Barton Creek Greenbelt, engages different muscles than road running and can improve your balance and agility. Plus, the scenic views are a bonus!

 

 

 

A group of people in a fitness class performing lunges with dumbbells, all aiming to achieve their marathon goals. They are on colorful exercise mats in a gym setting, dressed in athletic wear, and focusing on their workout in front of a large mirror. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

5. Group Fitness Classes

Staying motivated can be tough, but group fitness classes offer a fun way to stay active and meet fellow fitness enthusiasts. From HIIT to spin classes, Austin has plenty of options. Joining a class adds variety to your routine, and the camaraderie can help keep your spirits high as race day approaches.

 

 

 

 

A group of individuals is dancing in a studio with wooden floors and mirrored walls, channeling their marathon goals. The center dancer, wearing a blue cap, sunglasses, a white tank top, gray pants, and white sneakers, strikes a dynamic pose. Other dancers are in the background, also in motion. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

6. Dancing

Who says training can’t be fun? Dancing is a fantastic way to stay active, improve your coordination, and get your heart pumping. Whether it’s a Zumba class or a visit to one of Austin’s dance studios, you’ll be moving your body in a whole new way. And hey, it’s great for mental health too!

 

 

 

 

A swimmer, wearing a white swim cap and goggles, is performing the freestyle stroke in a pool. They are surrounded by blue and green lane dividers, creating a vibrant and focused scene of competitive swimming, highlighting the importance of staying active. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

7. Swimming

Swimming is a full-body workout that’s easy on the joints, making it a perfect complement to running. It’s a great way to stay cool while staying active, especially during Austin’s hot months. The Deep Eddy Pool offers a historic and relaxing place to get in some laps.

 

 

 

 

A group of five hikers with backpacks and trekking poles walk along a grassy trail overlooking the ocean at sunset, staying active and enjoying the outdoors. The sky is golden and the sea is calm, creating a serene and picturesque landscape. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

8. Walking or Hiking

On days when you need a break from running, a brisk walk or hike can be a great alternative. It keeps you moving without the intensity of a run. Explore the trails at Mount Bonnell or enjoy a sunset walk around the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Walking can also be a great way to recover on your rest days while still staying active.

 

 

 

 

Two people are performing box jumps in a gym, staying active to achieve their marathon goals. The man on the left wears a blue shirt and black shorts, while the woman on the right sports a pink top and black leggings. Both are mid-air, jumping onto wooden boxes. Gym equipment and pillars fill the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

9. Plyometrics

Plyometric exercises, like jump squats, box jumps, or burpees, are excellent for building explosive strength and improving your running power. These high-intensity movements can help you develop the speed and agility needed for that final push in the marathon. Just a couple of sessions a week can make a big difference!

 

 

 

 

Two women wearing protective gear and rollerblades high-five each other outdoors on a paved area, showing their commitment to staying active. Both are dressed in blue t-shirts, with one in pink shorts and the other in black. Trees and buildings are visible in the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

 

10. Rollerblading or Skating

Take a break from running and try rollerblading or skating. It’s a fun way to engage your leg muscles in a different way while still working on balance and coordination. The Walnut Creek Hike and Bike Trail are ideal for this activity.

 

 

 

 

 

Why Variety Matters

Incorporating different activities into your training not only keeps things interesting but also helps build a well-rounded fitness level. Variety prevents burnout, reduces the risk of overuse injuries, and makes your marathon journey more enjoyable. Plus, you’ll be more likely to stick with your training plan when you’re having fun!

So, lace up those running shoes, grab your yoga mat, or hop on that bike. Every step, stretch, and movement brings you closer to that unforgettable finish line at the Austin Marathon!