Ascension Seton Austin Marathon and OOFOS Forge Exciting Partnership for 2024

Leading Recovery Footwear Brand Joins Forces with Iconic Austin Running Event

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5k is thrilled to announce a dynamic partnership with OOFOS, the global leader in Active Recovery footwear, for the upcoming 2024 event. This sponsorship marks a significant milestone for both organizations, bringing together a shared commitment to excellence, health, and community engagement. The event is set to happen February 18, 2024 in Austin, Texas.

OOFOS, renowned for its innovative recovery footwear, has signed on as the Official Recovery Footwear Sponsor and Presenting Sponsor of the FloTrack Live Broadcast for the Austin Marathon weekend, reaffirming its dedication to supporting athletes in pursuit of their personal athletic goals. OOFOS will be on-site throughout the weekend to celebrate these achievements with surprises and one-of-a-kind activations. 

“We are delighted to welcome OOFOS as a key partner for the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5k in 2024,” said Megan Frausto, Partnership Manager of the Austin Marathon. “OOFOS’ commitment to athlete recovery aligns seamlessly with our mission to provide a world-class event that prioritizes the well-being of our participants. We believe this collaboration will significantly enhance the overall race experience for runners of all levels.”

As part of the sponsorship, OOFOS will bring the party to the Official Shakeout Run and Health & Fitness Expo leading up to the event, offering participants the opportunity to explore and experience their revolutionary recovery footwear. In addition, OOFOS will play a pivotal role in post-race recovery throughout the OOFOS Finish Line Festival – Recovery Starts Here, including an interactive installation where participants can revel in their success and “feel the OO” after crushing the marathon, half marathon, or 5k.“The only thing that feels better than finishing a marathon is the celebration after,” said Jeremy Langton, Director of Events and Partnership Marketing at OOFOS. “At OOFOS, our mission is to make yOO feel better, and we are thrilled to bring our game-changing OOfoam technology to the Austin Marathon community for an epic finish line festival and unforgettable weekend. 

The Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5k, along with OOFOS, are committed to creating an memorable experience for participants, volunteers, and spectators alike. This partnership exemplifies the shared values of both organizations and sets the stage for an exceptional event in 2024. 

Registration is open for all distances, but the full marathon is expected to sell out soon.

 

About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: The Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k will celebrate its 33rd year running in Austin, Texas on Feb. 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. The event is owned and produced by High Five Events, one of the largest privately owned event production companies in the United States.

About OOFOS®: OOFOS is the global leader in recovery footwear, founded by a team of industry veterans looking to help runners and fitness enthusiasts recover better from their workouts. Made with revolutionary OOfoam™ technology, OOFOS are designed to absorb 37% more impact than traditional footwear. They reduce stress on joints to keep anyone, of any activity level, feeling their best. From professional athletes to casual walkers, OOFOS footwear will make your hard-working feet and body feel better – all you have to do is feel the OO. For more information, go to www.oofos.com.

Discover Exciting Opportunities with the Austin Marathon at Upcoming Recruitment Event

Explore Part-Time Roles in the Event Industry with Numerous Openings in 2024

High Five Events, the parent company of the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon and other premier endurance events, is thrilled to unveil an upcoming recruitment session targeting prospective part-time team members. Scheduled to take place at the High Five Events office in Austin, Texas, on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at 6:30 PM, this info session promises an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in delving into the world of event production.

Open to all, the meeting offers attendees a unique chance to explore the core aspects of event production at High Five Events. Participants can look forward to an engaging Q&A session and the opportunity to connect with both full-time and part-time staff members.

Dan Carroll, co-owner of High Five Events, underscored the pivotal role played by part-time staff in the success of their diverse array of events. “Our part-time staff is integral to the success of each of our multiple events,” Carroll emphasized. “This presents an exceptional opportunity for those intrigued by event production, whether they are looking to explore the intricacies of organizing running, cycling, and triathlon events or simply seeking additional income and the chance to expand their social network.”

While no prior event experience is required, successful applicants should be prepared to work outdoors and on weekends. Part-time staff members are expected to join the crew for the weekend days of the event, with the possibility of additional work during the week leading up to the event.

 

Below is the schedule of events for part-time work in 2024:

3M Half Marathon – January 21

Ascension Seton Austin Marathon – February 18

Statesman Cap10K – April 7

CapTex Tri – May 27

Kerrville Triathlon Festival – September 27 – 29

Livestrong Challenge – October 20

 

Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend the recruitment event in person or via Zoom, to discover more about the dynamic opportunities available at High Five Events and to take the first step toward becoming an integral part of their event production team. Complete this form to provide your contact information and if you will attend the session.    

About High Five Events:  High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, 3M Half Marathon, CapTex Triathlon and Kerrville Triathlon Festival. With over 150 years of combined experience, the High Five Events team specializes in organizing large-scale events across diverse venues, solidifying their presence on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 and 2020.

Final Call for 2024 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon Elite Field

Deadline for Entries is December 31 with $20,000 prize purse on the line

High Five Events, the organization behind the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, is inviting elite runners to submit applications before December 31 for participation in the 2024 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon’s Elite Athlete Field. Celebrating its seventh consecutive year, the Elite Athlete Field is designed to assemble a competitive group of exceptional male and female runners, unearthing emerging talent and propelling the entire cohort toward Olympic standards. FloTrack will provide live coverage, spotlighting the intense competition among elite athletes and capturing their achievements throughout the event, showcased during the broadcast. Mark your calendars for the premier annual running event, scheduled for February 18, 2024.

Athletes qualifying for the Elite Athlete Field must meet specific program standards. Successful candidates will receive a complimentary entry into The Austin Marathon or Half Marathon. Competing in the 2024 Austin Marathon Elite Athlete Field offers the chance to vie for a generous $20,000 prize purse rewarding the top five male and female finishers in the marathon. While no prize money is allocated for the half marathon, elite runners can avail themselves of a complimentary entry if they meet the specified standards (refer to the guidelines below).

Applicants who plan to achieve a time of approximately 3:00 for women or 2:40 for men in the marathon category are encouraged to apply as elite runners. It’s important to note that age group runners surpassing registered elites in performance, despite achieving the best time, will not be eligible for prize money.

Emily Stevens, Athletes Services Manager for High Five Events, explains “We are encouraging runners to push their limits by becoming a part of the elite field at the 2024 Austin Marathon and Half Marathon. While the event will feature some of the swiftest competitors, we extend a special call to those of you prepared to elevate your performance to the next level.”

Applicants interested in joining the Elite Field must adhere to the following requirements:

  1. Submit the Elite Application before the December 31 deadline.
  2. Non-U.S. applicants must be represented by a Coach or Sponsor.
  3. Rolling applications accepted until December 31, 2023. Submissions received post-deadline will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with athletes notified of their selection by a representative of The Austin Marathon.

All athletes, including those in the Elite Field, are subject to random pre- and post-race drug testing. Prize checks will be mailed post-race upon completion of the drug testing protocol. Only Full Marathon runners accepted into the Elite Field are eligible for prize money, and they are not eligible for age group awards. All prize money and elite field awards are based on gun time, not chip time.

For questions or additional information, please contact [email protected]. Please allow 7-10 business days for a response.

 

About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: Since its inception in 1991, the Austin Marathon® has emerged as a world-class running event, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 30 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 High Five Events: High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, 3M Half Marathon, CapTex Triathlon and Kerrville Triathlon Festival. With over 150 years of combined experience, the High Five Events team specializes in organizing large-scale events across diverse venues, solidifying their presence on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 and 2020.

Race to Wellness: Master Pre and Post-Race Nutrition with H-E-B’s Expert Dietitian Tips

Embarking on a wellness journey, especially as you prepare for an event like the Austin Marathon, combines the thrill of physical training with the importance of holistic nutrition. In this blog, we delve into the crucial aspects of pre and post-race nutrition, offering valuable tips and insights to enhance your experience. With the expert guidance of an H-E-B Dietitian, we’ll explore tailored dietary strategies that can significantly boost your performance and recovery.

Whether you’re gearing up for a race or seeking to improve your overall fitness, understanding pre and post-race fueling is crucial. Let’s dive into our H-E-B Dietitian recommendations and share some of their favorite products to meet these goals. 


Before Your Race

H‑E‑B Frozen Multigrain Waffles

For endurance-type activities, carbohydrates serve as the foundation of your diet. They provide the main source of energy for both your body and brain. To prepare your body for longer periods of physical activity, start thinking about carbohydrate loading 1-2 days before your run. Aim for whole grain and starchy vegetables, like waffles or pancakes at breakfast and sweet potato, pasta, or rice at lunch and dinner. Oats, cereals, and fruit pouches make for great snacks and you can even enjoy orange juice during this prep period.

  • Carbohydrate Goal for 1-2 Days Before Your Race: Aim for 4.5-5.5 grams of carbohydrates per pound of body weight each day. For instance, a 150-pound individual should target approximately 675-825 grams of carbohydrates daily.

H‑E‑B 10g Protein Instant Oatmeal – Strawberries & Cream

Keep these same carbohydrate sources in mind as you jump into race mode on the big day. One or two hours before your run, you’ll want to fuel yourself with a quick source of carbohydrates, like a bagel with jam and banana slices.

  • Carbohydrate Goal 1-2 hours before: 0.5-1.0 grams of carbohydrate per pound of body weight. This looks likes some 75-
    100 grams of carbohydrate for someone weighing 150 pounds.
Favorite Products: H-E-B Frozen Multigrain Waffles and H-E-B Protein Instant Oatmeal varieties


What to Eat After 

H‑E‑B Organics Chickpea Elbow Pasta

You’ve just finished your race, congratulations! Now there’s just a small race to fuel your body after all that hard work. In the 24-48 hour period after your race, you’ll want to fuel with the right combination of foods to help replenish glycogen stores, support muscle repair and build, and recover lost electrolytes.

  • Carbohydrate Goal 24-48 hours after: three times more carbohydrate than protein per your usual intake.
Favorite Products: H-E-B Organics Whole Wheat pasta varieties or H-E-B Organics Chickpea, Red or Yellow Lentil pasta varieties if you’re looking for a gluten free option.


What About Protein and Fat?

H‑E‑B Organics Whole Wheat Penne Rigate

While focusing on carbohydrates is crucial, it’s important not to overlook the other essential macronutrients: protein and fat. It’s easy to forget about the other two macronutrients when so much of fueling involves balancing your carbohydrate intake. But a solid high-quality protein plan will help prevent muscle breakdown and enable muscle repair. In the case of endurance activities like marathon running, your body will eventually burn protein for energy.

Pair your carbohydrate-loaded meals with protein foods like lean cuts of meat, tofu, and beans and legumes. In the case of fat, you’ll want to swap smartly. As you increase your carbohydrate intake prior to a run, your fat intake will drop. Think about swapping butter or avocado slices on your morning toast for an extra slice of toast.


Meal Planning

H‑E‑B Stride Strawberry Kiwi Recovery Drink

For just $45, you can book a 30-minute Meal Planning session with an H-E-B Dietitian, tailored specifically to your dietary needs and goals.

Ideal for both individuals and families, this session offers a gateway to healthful, realistic, and scientifically-backed nutrition plans. Athletes, in particular, will find value as the session dives deep into dietary considerations vital for optimal performance. Your dietitian will tailor a meal plan to suit your taste preferences, cooking style, and cultural nuances, all while accommodating any dietary restrictions. The result? A one-week personalized meal guide, complete with delectable recipes and a handy shopping list, ensuring your meals are as enjoyable as they are nourishing.

 

In summary, the journey to peak athletic performance is as much about what you eat as it is about how you train. Proper nutrition, specifically tailored to the demands of your physical activities, is key to unlocking your full potential. From carbohydrate loading before a race to replenishing your body with the right balance of nutrients afterward, every meal plays a critical role in your performance and recovery.

Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of the food you consume, but the quality as well. Balancing carbohydrates with high-quality proteins and smart fat choices ensures your body gets the comprehensive support it needs. This is where the expertise of an H-E-B Dietitian becomes invaluable. By booking a personalized meal planning session, you gain access to customized advice and meal solutions that cater to your unique dietary needs and preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-timer at the Austin Marathon, investing in a consultation with an H-E-B Dietitian can be a game-changer. It will not only assist in fine-tuning your diet for optimal endurance and performance but also ensure that your meals are enjoyable, nutritious, and aligned with your specific health and wellness goals as a marathon runner. Fuel your body right, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

To learn more about H-E-B Wellness Dietitian Services, which are available both in-person and virtually, visit our website https://www.heb.com/wellness or call (855) 805-9355.