Austin Mayor Steve Adler extends an open invitation to all runners to come run the Austin Marathon® presented by NXP. Adler, a former finisher of the Austin Half Marathon, talks about the Mayor’s Cup, challenges businesses to sign up for the Corporate Challenge, and highlights what makes the Austin Marathon one of the greatest marathons in the country.

“Whether you’re an elite runner or you’re just going to take a leisurely 26.2-mile stroll around Austin, it’s going to be a beautiful course,” said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. “There is no better city to recover in. Come see us in Austin.”

Mayor Adler has given his stamp of approval to the Mayor’s Cup, which will reward the top elite athletes and the business that wins the Corporate Challenge.

Elite Athlete Program applications are still being accepted and elite marathoners can apply on the Austin Marathon’s website. Athletes that meet the program’s standards and are accepted will be given one comp entry to the 2017 Austin Marathon, a complimentary ride from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to downtown and back to the airport, and the option of a hotel room or home stay for two nights at no cost.

The Corporate Challenge, powered by FitRankings, will challenge businesses to engage in a friendly competition with one another and allow their employees to track their training and race-day activity. FitRankings ranks companies and individuals using real-time data from the latest wearable devices and fitness apps. Sign up for the Corporate Challenge, add your company, and join the Austin Marathon Challenge.

The Austin Marathon will celebrate its 26th year running in the capital of Texas. Austin’s flagship running event annually attracts runners from all 50 states and 20+ 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. Participants can still register for the marathon, half marathon, or 5K.