Ascension Seton Austin Marathon Unveils Elite Athlete Field for 35th Anniversary

in ,

Top U.S. and international competitors set to take on Austin’s streets with Olympic-level stakes on February 15, 2026

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k is proud to announce the selection of elite athletes for the 2026 event. This long standing program aims to assemble a competitive field of top-tier male and female runners while also identifying emerging talents, elevating the overall standard of competition to Olympic levels. FloTrack’s live coverage will capture the intensity among elite marathoners providing a spotlight on their performances. The 35th Anniversary Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is scheduled for February 15, 2026.

 

“The Elite Athlete Program continues to grow in both depth and prestige each year,” said Emily Stevens, Athlete Services Manager for the Austin Marathon. “We’re seeing stronger fields, faster times, and a clear pathway from Austin to the highest levels of the sport. Bringing this caliber of competition to our 35th Anniversary race adds an incredible energy to the weekend.”

 

The elite athletes for the 2026 Austin Marathon and Half Marathon includes: 


Marathon Female Elites:

  1. Careth Arnold
  2. Emily Sharp
  3. EUNICE MUKINA MUTUNGI
  4. Joy Jiang
  5. RISPER CHEBET
  6. Sarah Jackson
  7. Valentyna Poltavska

 

Marathon Male Elites:

  1. Bradley Makuvire
  2. Charles Mahiuha
  3. Christopher Kipkurui
  4. Daniel Lemashon salel
  5. Guillaume RUEL
  6. Jackson Siddall
  7. Jacob Buhler
  8. Joseph Whelan
  9. Justin Botello
  10. Mark Messmer
  11. Michael Bailey
  12. Mohammed El Yazidi
  13. Sammy Kogo
  14. Sean Handel


Half Marathon Female Elites:

  1. Emma Lopez
  2. Katherine Deegan
  3. Michelle Murray
  4. Mina Glenesk
  5. Rachel Schwab


Half Marathon Male Elites:

  1. Alan Catana
  2. Alejandro Gonzalez
  3. Caleb Hershey
  4. Carter Campbell
  5. David Fuentes
  6. Kevin Petow
  7. Mace Galliete
  8. Nadir Yusuf
  9. Oscar Acosta
  10. Rickey Armstrong
  11. Ridley Holmes
  12. Shane Kelliher
  13. Taylor Smith


For 2026, the marathon elite prize purse remains at a strong $20,000. While the half marathon does not offer prize money, elite runners may receive a complimentary entry if they meet the qualifying standards outlined below.

 

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 elites@youraustinmarathon.com. Please allow 7-10 business days for a response.

 

About the Ascension Seton 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.

Don’t Skip the Rules: What Happens When You Change Your Race Distance

in

At the Austin Marathon, we love seeing every runner cross the finish line and celebrate their hard-earned accomplishment. We understand that sometimes plans change, which is why we offer distance transfers from the full marathon to the half marathon. While we strive to accommodate as many runners as possible, it’s important to understand the impact these transfers can have on the event experience.

 

A cheerful cartoon bat wearing a white T-shirt and sneakers stands smiling, holding up a gold medal. The shirt features a blue "Autism Marathon" logo and running rules for how to change race distance. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KMedals Are More Than Just Metal

Each race distance has its own unique medal, carefully designed to honor the specific challenge a runner signed up for. When someone registered for the full marathon switches to the half marathon, it can affect medal availability. Full marathon registration originally reserved a medal and spot for that distance. While we want everyone to have the option to transfer, taking a half marathon medal reallocates a resource that was planned for another runner. Because our medals have to be ordered well in advance, we forecast our expected finisher numbers which limits our ability to accomodate every distance change request.

 

 

 

A cheerful cartoon bat in running gear crosses a red finish line ribbon under a "FINISH" banner at a marathon, celebrating completing the race distance as confetti falls and a city skyline shines in the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KFinish Line Experience and Crowd Management

We carefully plan the density of runners at the finish line to ensure a smooth and celebratory experience for everyone. When participants switch distances mid-event, it can impact this planning. Overcrowding at the finish line not only affects the experience of runners who trained for that distance, but it can also create challenges for volunteers, photographers, and support staff. In extreme cases, unexpected crowd density can affect the safety of participants, volunteers, and spectators.

 

 

 

A cartoon bat wearing a yellow hard hat, a reflective safety vest, and sneakers, holding a red first aid kit with a white cross—smiling as if ready to teach race training or explain running rules, standing confidently on two legs. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KSafety and Medical Considerations

One of our top priorities is safety. When a runner cuts their course or changes distance without the proper planning, it can complicate medical and safety assessments. Knowing where runners should be on the course helps our team respond quickly in case of an emergency. Deviations from the planned course can delay response times and make it harder for medical teams to locate and assist runners.

 

 

 

A cartoon bat with blue hair and gray wings is wearing a white T-shirt, black shorts, and sneakers, and is happily running, excited to change race distance while following all running rules. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KGuidelines for Distance Changes During the Race

We encourage every runner to plan carefully and go through the proper channels for distance changes. And if by chance you find yourself at the split and decide your day ends in 13.1 instead of 26.2, please do not take a medal at the finish line. Just reach out to us after the event, and we’re happy to ship you a half marathon medal if any are remaining. By doing so, you help us ensure the Austin Marathon remains a smooth, safe, and unforgettable experience for everyone crossing the finish line.

Race Day Essentials: What to Pack in Your Gear Bag for the Austin Marathon

in

Almost there! The Austin Marathon is just around the corner. Whether you’re gearing up for your first race or you’re a seasoned finisher, making sure your gear bag is packed and ready can help eliminate stress and keep your focus on the miles ahead. From pre-race must-haves to post-finish comfort items, a well-prepared gear bag ensures you’re set for whatever race morning brings.

A woman in athletic wear, smiling and running the Austin Marathon with other runners in the background on a sunny day. She wears a purple sports bra, black shorts, and a race bib labeled "5412," ready with her race day essentials. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KPre-Race Essentials

These are the must-haves you’ll want access to before heading to the start line:

  • Race bib (pinned to the outer layer of your clothes)
  • Photo ID
  • Safety pins or bib clips
  • Phone
  • Headphones (if you run with music)
  • Portable charger (optional but helpful)

 

A smiling woman in an orange shirt and beanie poses at the Austin Marathon half marathon event, wearing sunglasses, a race bib, and carrying her race day essentials. Other runners and spectators are visible in the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KClothing & Weather Gear

Texas weather can change quickly, so pack with flexibility in mind:

  • Throwaway layers (old sweatshirt or long-sleeve shirt for the start)
  • Hat or visor
  • Gloves or arm warmers (easy to remove mid-race)
  • Sunglasses
  • Extra socks (dry feet are a post-race win)
  • Rain poncho or light jacket (if rain is in the forecast)

 

A woman in athletic wear smiles and poses while running outdoors on a sunny day, holding her Race Day Essentials—an energy gel packet and phone—at the Austin Marathon, with trees and buildings lining the road behind her. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KFuel & Hydration

Stick with what you’ve practiced during training—race day is not the time to try anything new:

  • Energy gels, chews, or blocks (BPN Go-Gels will be on course)
  • Pre-race snack (banana, bar, toast, etc.)
  • Electrolytes (BPN Electrolytes will be on course)
  • Water bottle or handheld (if you prefer carrying your own)

 

A person holds a white tube and squeezes lotion or cream onto the back of their other hand—an important step among race day essentials for the Austin Marathon, set against a blurred green background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KComfort & Injury Prevention

Small items can make a big difference during and after the race:

  • Body glide or anti-chafe balm
  • Band-aids or blister patches
  • Sunscreen
  • Tissues or wipes
  • Pain reliever (for post-race use only)

 

A pair of red high-top sneakers sits on top of a neatly folded stack of race day essentials—yellow shirt, red sweater, patterned fabric, and blue jeans—perfect for packing in your Austin Marathon gear bag, all set against a white background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

Post-Race Recovery Items

You’ll be glad you packed these once you cross the finish line:

  • Dry change of clothes
  • Warm layer for after the race
  • Recovery snack or protein drink
  • Flip-flops or comfortable shoes
  • Towel (especially if it’s hot or rainy)

 

A man in a blue shirt and shorts smiles while foam rolling his thigh on a running track outdoors, preparing for marathon success. A water bottle rests beside him, with trees visible in the background. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5KNice-to-Have Extras

Not essential, but helpful for a smoother race day experience:

  • Small foam roller or massage ball
  • Cash or credit card
  • Race schedule or course map
  • Personal note or good-luck charm

 

Final Race Day Tips

Pack your gear bag the night before race day and lay everything out so nothing gets forgotten in the morning rush. Label your bag clearly, double-check the weather forecast, and arrive early to allow plenty of time for bag check and warm-up.

Taper Time: How to Do It Right for the Austin Marathon

in
Preparing for the Austin Marathon is a journey that requires dedication, discipline, and smart training. As race day approaches, one of the most crucial phases in your training plan is the taper. Tapering is the period when you reduce your training volume to allow your body to recover and perform at its best on race day. Here’s how to do it right:

 

1. Understand the Purpose of Tapering

Tapering isn’t about slacking off—it’s a strategic reduction in mileage and intensity to help your muscles repair, replenish glycogen stores, and reduce fatigue. The goal is to arrive at the starting line feeling fresh, strong, and ready to run your best.

 

2. When to Start Your Taper

For most marathoners, the taper begins about 2-3 weeks before race day. For the Austin Marathon, plan to start your taper after your longest training run. This gives your body enough time to recover without losing fitness.

 

3. Reduce Mileage Gradually

Cut your weekly mileage by 20-30% each week during the taper. For example, if you’re running 40 miles per week, drop to 30 miles two weeks out, then 20 miles the week before the race. Keep your runs shorter but maintain some intensity with occasional race-pace efforts.

 

4. Maintain Intensity, Lower Volume

While you’ll be running less, don’t eliminate all speed work. Include a few short intervals or tempo runs at race pace to keep your legs sharp. Avoid any new or overly strenuous workouts.

 

5. Focus on Recovery

Prioritize sleep, hydration, and nutrition. Eat balanced meals with plenty of carbohydrates to top off your energy stores. Stretch, foam roll, and consider light cross-training like swimming or yoga to stay loose.

 

6. Trust Your Training

It’s normal to feel restless or worry that you’re losing fitness during the taper. Trust the process—your body is adapting and getting stronger. Resist the urge to squeeze in extra miles or hard workouts.

 

7. Prepare Mentally

Use the extra time and energy to visualize your race. Review the Austin Marathon course, plan your race-day logistics, and set realistic goals. Positive mental preparation is just as important as physical readiness.

 

8. Race Week Tips

  • Stick to familiar foods and routines
  • Lay out your gear in advance
  • Stay off your feet as much as possible
  • Get plenty of rest
Tapering is your ticket to a strong Austin Marathon finish. By following these tips, you’ll toe the line feeling confident, rested, and ready to achieve your goals. Good luck, and enjoy the race!