Ascension Seton Austin Marathon 2027: A World-Class Running Stage
Join the world’s best on Sunday, February 14, 2027, 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 2026 race marked a historic milestone, with both the men’s and women’s marathon course records shattered, further elevating the event’s reputation on the global stage.
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 competitive racing. Runners from all 50 U.S. states and over 35 countries converge on Austin to take part in this world-class event.
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, 2026, 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, use the chat feature below or reach out to elites@youraustinmarathon.com.
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.
Elite Program Guidelines
Review the program guidelines below for details on performance standards, financial structures, and compliance requirements for elite athletes.
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. 14, 2027: |
| Marathon | Half Marathon | |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 2:29 | 1:09 |
| Female | 2:55 | 1:18 |
- Non-U.S. applicants must be represented by a coach or sponsor.
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.
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. 14, 2027
Male: Female: |
$200 for hitting Olympic standard during the 2027 Austin Marathon
Male: Female: |
$500 for course record 2:14:23 |
|---|
Travel & Hotel Information
The event does not provide travel, hotel accommodations, or pre-event assistance. However, accepted elite runners who have achieved Olympic standards within the past three years may submit receipts for reimbursement of eligible travel expenses—such as flights and hotel stays—up to $350.
All reimbursement requests are reviewed by race directors after the event to determine eligibility. Participants must start the race to qualify, and all claims must be submitted post-race. Requests submitted prior to race day will not be considered.
Hydration, Nutrition & Assistance Guidelines
Joseph Whelan (USA)
