Ascension Seton Austin Marathon 2026: A World-Class Running Stage
Join the world’s best on Sunday, February 15, 2026, for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon—one of the premier marathon events globally. USATF-sanctioned and certified, this race showcases Austin’s iconic skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and unbeatable energy. The course is lined with 22 aid stations, 26 live bands, hundreds of motivational signs, and thousands of cheering fans, creating an atmosphere that makes every mile unforgettable. Temperatures in mid-February typically range from a crisp 42°F to a sunny 66°F, ideal for fast, competitive racing. Runners from all 50 U.S. states and over 35 countries converge on Austin to compete on this world-class stage.
Elite Field: Compete Among the Best
The Elite Field is reserved for top-tier athletes chasing excellence and Olympic standards as part of the full marathon. Elite participants receive complimentary entry to the full marathon and compete for a $20,000 prize purse, split evenly between men’s and women’s divisions:
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1st – $4,000
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2nd – $3,000
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3rd – $1,500
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4th – $1,000
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5th – $500
Prize eligibility is based on gun time, and all athletes are subject to pre- and post-race drug testing. Elite runners are not eligible for age group awards, ensuring the spotlight stays on the world’s fastest competitors.
There is no elite prize purse for the half marathon, but runners meeting the standards can apply for complimentary entry.
Apply to Join the Elite Field
Applications are open now through December 31, 2025, with rolling acceptance. Non-U.S. applicants must be represented by a coach or sponsor. Elite spots are highly selective, and athletes will be notified by an official Austin Marathon representative.
📩 For questions, reach out to elites@youraustinmarathon.com or use the chat feature below.
Watch the World’s Best Live
Don’t miss a second of the action: the Elite Marathon will be broadcast live on FloTrack, bringing the chase for glory and the race coverage to millions of viewers around the world.
Accommodation Reimbursements
Reimbursements for Elite Runners
Elite runners who have met Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of travel expenses up to a specific limit, including flights and hotel stays. These requests are reviewed post-race by the race directors to determine eligibility. Participants must start the race to qualify for any reimbursements, and claims must be filed after the event. Claims submitted before race day will not be considered.
Drug Testing and Prize Eligibility
Drug Testing and Prize Eligibility
All participating athletes are subject to random drug testing both before and after the race. Prize disbursements are made post-race following the completion of the drug testing protocols. Only runners in the Elite Field who complete the full marathon are eligible for prize money, which is awarded based on gun time rather than chip time. Notably, Elite runners are not eligible for age group awards, and age group runners who outperform elites will not receive prize money.
Required Standards For Acceptance
REQUIRED STANDARDS
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| To be accepted into the Elite Field, athletes must meet the following standards no earlier than 3 years before Feb. 15, 2026: |
| Marathon | Half Marathon | |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 2:29 | 1:09 |
| Female | 2:55 | 1:18 |
Bonuses Available
Standard Bonuses Available for Full Marathon
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| $200 for having hit the Olympic standard no earlier than 3 years before Feb. 15, 2026Male: Marathon – 2:19 Female: |
$200 for hitting Olympic standard during the 2026 Austin MarathonMale: Marathon – 2:19 Female: |
$500 for course record2:14:23 |
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Click here to review a variety of questions and answers regarding the elite field and related information.
How do I qualify for the Elite Field in the Austin Marathon?
To qualify, male athletes must have completed a marathon in 2:29 or less and females in 2:55 or less; for the half marathon, the standards are 1:09 for males and 1:18 for females, within three years prior to race day.
What are the prize amounts for the Austin Marathon?
The total prize purse is $20,000, with awards distributed as follows: 1st place $4,000, 2nd place $3,000, 3rd place $1,500, 4th place $1,000, and 5th place $500, split evenly between men’s and women’s divisions.
What benefits do elite athletes receive?
Elite athletes in the Austin Marathon receive several benefits, including complimentary race entry and eligibility for prize money. Additional perks include special bibs, preferred starting positions, and standard bonuses of $200 for meeting Olympic standards and $500 for setting a new course record. While not specified for this particular race, elite athletes sometimes also receive travel stipends or accommodations at other events.
How does the drug testing process work?
Athletes are subject to random drug testing before and after the race, with prize disbursement contingent upon completion of these protocols.
Can elite athletes from outside the U.S. apply?
Yes, non-U.S. athletes may apply but must be represented by a coach or sponsor.
What is the deadline to apply for the Elite Field?
The application deadline is December 31. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until this date.
What happens if I apply after the deadline?
Late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
How will I know if I’ve been accepted into the Elite Field?
Athletes will be notified of their selection by a representative of The Austin Marathon.
What if I meet the standards during the application review period?
If you meet the qualifying standards after submitting your application but before the deadline, it’s advisable to update your application to ensure your performance is considered.
Does the race offer lodging or any transportation assistance?
The event does not offer lodging or transportation assistance. However, elite runners who have met Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of specific travel expenses. These requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis after the race.
Are there reimbursements for travel expenses for elite runners?
Elite runners who have met Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of specific travel expenses, which are reviewed post-race.
Bradley Makuvire (ZWE)
