More Than $6 Million Raised for Central Texas Nonprofits
The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, set for President’s Day weekend on February 15, 2026, proudly announces the continued partnership with the Moody Foundation as the presenting partner of Austin Marathon Gives, the event’s Official Charity Program. Entering its 11th year, the partnership has generated more than $6 million in support of Central Texas nonprofits and will once again aim to raise $1 million during the 2026 event.
Since its inception, Austin Marathon Gives has connected runners with meaningful causes, empowering participants to fundraise on behalf of organizations making a tangible impact across the region. With the Moody Foundation’s ongoing support and generous donation matching, the program continues to grow in both scale and community reach.
“Austin Marathon Gives is a powerful example of how this community comes together—turning personal passion into collective impact. We’re proud to continue partnering with the Austin Marathon to support Central Texas nonprofits and to help ensure that every mile run translates into meaningful support for organizations doing vital work across our region,” said Ross Moody, trustee, Moody Foundation.
Based in Galveston, Texas, the Moody Foundation has a long-standing legacy of supporting initiatives that strengthen communities across the state. Through its continued matching of funds raised via Austin Marathon Gives, the foundation advances one of its core focus areas—community development—while helping nonprofits expand their reach and impact.
“Austin Marathon Gives has become a cornerstone of what this event represents,” said Jack Murray, Co-Owner of the Austin Marathon. “The Moody Foundation’s partnership elevates the entire experience for our runners and our nonprofit partners. Together, we’ve built a program that turns miles into meaningful change, and we’re excited to see what we can accomplish in 2026.”
Through Austin Marathon Gives, registered participants can select an official nonprofit during race registration and fundraise leading up to race day. Each participating charity engages directly with runners, offering mission-driven inspiration, training encouragement, and fundraising support. To further amplify these efforts, the Moody Foundation will match fundraising totals for each official charity up to $10,000.
With a fundraising goal of $1,000,000 for the 2026 event, Austin Marathon Gives remains committed to supporting organizations that strengthen health, education, housing, and social services throughout Central Texas.
Runners who are already registered can get involved by visiting the Run for Charity page on the Austin Marathon website. Participants may select a nonprofit, create a personalized fundraising page to share with friends and family, or make a one-time donation directly to an official Austin Marathon Gives charity.
For more information about Austin Marathon Gives or to register for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, visit our website.
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.
About the Moody Foundation:
The Moody Foundation was established by W.L. Moody, Jr. and Libbie Shearn Moody in 1942 to share their good fortune and make a difference in the lives of the people of Texas. Since then, the Foundation has pledged and awarded more than $2.5 billion in grants throughout the state to organizations that have educated, healed, nurtured and inspired generations of Texans. The Moody Foundation continues with a board of three trustees: Frances Moody-Dahlberg, Ross Moody and Elizabeth “Elle” Moody. Learn more at MoodyF.org
Race Day Strategy: Pacing, Mindset, When to Push vs Preserve for the Austin Marathon
in Blog postThe Austin Marathon is just around the corner, and whether you’re a seasoned runner or tackling 26.2 miles for the first time, having a solid race day strategy can make all the difference. Let’s break down how to approach pacing, mindset, and knowing when to push versus preserve your energy.
One of the biggest mistakes runners make is starting too fast. The excitement at the starting line can be contagious, but going out too hard can lead to burnout later in the race. Stick to your planned pace, even if it feels slower than you’d like in the first few miles.
Running a marathon is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Staying in the right headspace can help you push through tough moments.
Knowing when to dig deep and when to hold back is key to finishing strong.
With the right pacing, a strong mindset, and a clear strategy for when to push versus preserve, you’ll be set up for success on race day. Good luck, and we’ll see you at the finish line!
Austin Marathon and Moody Foundation Renew Partnership to Power Central Texas Non-Profits
in Blog postMore Than $6 Million Raised for Central Texas Nonprofits
The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, set for President’s Day weekend on February 15, 2026, proudly announces the continued partnership with the Moody Foundation as the presenting partner of Austin Marathon Gives, the event’s Official Charity Program. Entering its 11th year, the partnership has generated more than $6 million in support of Central Texas nonprofits and will once again aim to raise $1 million during the 2026 event.
Since its inception, Austin Marathon Gives has connected runners with meaningful causes, empowering participants to fundraise on behalf of organizations making a tangible impact across the region. With the Moody Foundation’s ongoing support and generous donation matching, the program continues to grow in both scale and community reach.
“Austin Marathon Gives is a powerful example of how this community comes together—turning personal passion into collective impact. We’re proud to continue partnering with the Austin Marathon to support Central Texas nonprofits and to help ensure that every mile run translates into meaningful support for organizations doing vital work across our region,” said Ross Moody, trustee, Moody Foundation.
Based in Galveston, Texas, the Moody Foundation has a long-standing legacy of supporting initiatives that strengthen communities across the state. Through its continued matching of funds raised via Austin Marathon Gives, the foundation advances one of its core focus areas—community development—while helping nonprofits expand their reach and impact.
“Austin Marathon Gives has become a cornerstone of what this event represents,” said Jack Murray, Co-Owner of the Austin Marathon. “The Moody Foundation’s partnership elevates the entire experience for our runners and our nonprofit partners. Together, we’ve built a program that turns miles into meaningful change, and we’re excited to see what we can accomplish in 2026.”
Through Austin Marathon Gives, registered participants can select an official nonprofit during race registration and fundraise leading up to race day. Each participating charity engages directly with runners, offering mission-driven inspiration, training encouragement, and fundraising support. To further amplify these efforts, the Moody Foundation will match fundraising totals for each official charity up to $10,000.
With a fundraising goal of $1,000,000 for the 2026 event, Austin Marathon Gives remains committed to supporting organizations that strengthen health, education, housing, and social services throughout Central Texas.
Runners who are already registered can get involved by visiting the Run for Charity page on the Austin Marathon website. Participants may select a nonprofit, create a personalized fundraising page to share with friends and family, or make a one-time donation directly to an official Austin Marathon Gives charity.
For more information about Austin Marathon Gives or to register for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, visit our website.
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.
About the Moody Foundation:
The Moody Foundation was established by W.L. Moody, Jr. and Libbie Shearn Moody in 1942 to share their good fortune and make a difference in the lives of the people of Texas. Since then, the Foundation has pledged and awarded more than $2.5 billion in grants throughout the state to organizations that have educated, healed, nurtured and inspired generations of Texans. The Moody Foundation continues with a board of three trustees: Frances Moody-Dahlberg, Ross Moody and Elizabeth “Elle” Moody. Learn more at MoodyF.org
Austin Marathon Turns Up the Volume with Live Bands on Course
in Blog postRunners will experience the sounds of Austin as local musicians bring The Live Music Capital of the World to the 2026 Event
The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is turning up the energy once again, announcing local bands that will perform live along the course at its 35th Anniversary on Sunday, February 15, 2026. From start to finish, runners will be powered by the rhythm and soul of Austin’s music scene as they make their way through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
“Live music is the heart of what makes the Austin Marathon so special,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “The incredible talent and variety of Austin musicians not only keep our runners motivated but also showcase exactly why this city is known as The Live Music Capital of the World.”
The 2026 on-course lineup includes a diverse mix of genres and sounds, ensuring every mile offers something new to inspire runners and spectators alike. Performers include Woode Wood, Claude 9, Ruthie Craft & The Conundrums, Brian MacLeod, Grupo Massa, The 4411, Henry Invisible, Inside Out Steel Band, Atlas Maior, Everett Wren, Nathan Harlan, Austin Takio, San Saba County, Kupira Marimba, the University Baptist Church Choir, Shirley Johnson, Stove Top Rangers, Sammy Foster Bucket Drummers, and DJ JahKarma, among others.
Music bookings for the Austin Marathon are curated by Jeff Strange of StrangeTribe Productions, continuing a long-standing partnership that brings authentic Austin sound to one of the city’s most beloved annual events.
“I’m proud to be the talent buyer for such a great event.” said Jeff Strange, owner of StrangeTribe Productions. “Music is the heartbeat of Austin, and at the Austin Marathon it powers every mile, with local talent turning the course into a moving celebration of the city.”
The Austin Marathon weekend kicks off with the Health & Fitness Expo at the Palmer Events Center on Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14. The Marathon and Half Marathon begin at 7:00 AM on Sunday, February 15 at 2nd Street and Congress Avenue, followed by the 5K at 7:45 AM. All three distances finish in front of the Texas State Capitol, where runners will celebrate with live music, local food, and an unforgettable Austin atmosphere.
For more information and to see where each band will perform on course, visit youraustinmarathon.com.
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.
How to Pace Your Austin Marathon or Half Marathon
in Blog postRunning the Austin Marathon or Half Marathon is an exciting challenge, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned runner. One of the most important factors for a successful race day is pacing. Here’s how you can pace yourself for the best experience and results on Austin’s unique course.
1. Know the Course
Austin’s course is known for its rolling hills, scenic downtown views, and enthusiastic crowd support. Study the course map ahead of time and note where the hills and flat sections are. Plan to conserve energy on the uphills and take advantage of the downhills.
2. Set a Realistic Goal
Base your goal pace on your recent training runs and races. Use a pace calculator to estimate your finish time, and be honest about your fitness level. Remember, Austin’s hills can slow you down, so factor that into your goal.
3. Start Slow
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement at the start line, but going out too fast can lead to burnout later. Aim to run the first few miles slightly slower than your goal pace. This will help you conserve energy for the tougher miles ahead.
4. Use Mile Markers and Splits
Break the race into smaller segments. Focus on reaching each mile marker at your planned split time. Many runners use a GPS watch or a pace band to stay on track. If you fall behind, don’t panic—adjust your pace gradually rather than trying to make up all the time at once.
5. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how you feel throughout the race. If you’re breathing too hard or your legs feel heavy early on, slow down. Hydrate at aid stations and take in nutrition as you’ve practiced during training.
6. Adjust for the Weather
Austin weather can be unpredictable in February. If it’s warmer or more humid than expected, slow your pace slightly to avoid overheating. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions.
7. Finish Strong
If you’ve paced yourself well, you’ll have energy left for the final miles. Use the crowd’s energy as you approach the finish line and give it your all in the last stretch.
Final Tips
Pacing is both an art and a science. With preparation and smart strategy, you’ll cross the Austin Marathon or Half Marathon finish line feeling strong and proud.