Tag Archive for: Leo Manzano

2018 Austin Marathon Announces Title Sponsor Opportunity

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The Austin Marathon is seeking title sponsorship with a company wanting to associate itself with one of the sports’ top events in one of America’s best cities. The 2017 Austin Marathon had an estimated combined total of 100,000 participants, volunteers, and race-day spectators, an economic impact of $34.4 million for the City of Austin in 2017, and online impressions that soared into the millions. The position of title sponsor for the Austin Marathon is ideal for any company seeking to increase its brand recognition and strengthen its brand loyalty within the health and fitness community both locally and around the globe.

“In 2017, the Austin Marathon increased their economic impact to $34.4 million, launched several new integrated marketing opportunities, and substantially grew their reach both online and in-person,” said Lance Aldridge, Executive Director of the Austin Sports Commission. “2017 was a banner year for Austin’s premier running event and this title sponsor opportunity is the perfect platform for any business with a desire to increase their brand recognition in Austin and within the endurance community.”

The title sponsor can utilize corporate social responsibility benefits like large-scale volunteer opportunities, increased employee health and wellness through event participation, and enhanced community engagement both pre-race and race weekend.

The Austin Marathon title sponsor will benefit from being associated with –

  • FloTrack’s world class broadcast of the Austin Marathon
  • Olympic silver medalist Leo Manzano, Official Race Ambassador
  • Raising nearly $700K for nonprofits in 2017
  • An exciting Elite Athlete Program focused on showcasing the sport’s top athletes
  • The support of Mayor Steve Adler and the Austin Sports Commission
  • Austin, Texas – Forbes’ Fastest Growing American City in 2016
  • One of the most technologically advanced marathons
  • A bustling Finish Line Festival complete with Beer Garden, Recovery Tent, live music, and more

“We’ve put a tremendous amount of work into the Austin Marathon and our event is continuing to trend in the right direction,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “We’re looking for the right partner who wants to grow with our ever-evolving event, bring fresh ideas to the table, and support our worldwide community.”

The Austin Marathon will celebrate its 27th year running in the capital of Texas on Sunday, February 18, 2018. In 2017, Austin’s flagship running event attracted runners from all 50 states and 22 countries around the world. Having start and finish locations just a few blocks apart, being within walking distance of many downtown hotels and restaurants, and finishing in front of the picturesque Texas State Capitol makes the Austin Marathon the perfect running weekend destination. Sponsorship inquiries can be sent directly to Jack Murray at sponsorship@highfiveevents.com.

History Made at the 2017 Austin Marathon

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Kayleigh Williamson made history on February 19th at the 2017 Austin Marathon® presented by NXP. She became the first female participant with Down syndrome to complete the Austin half marathon. Despite warmer than normal temperatures, Williamson finished the 13.1-mile course in six hours and 23 minutes. All throughout the course, Kayleigh had thousands of cheering supporters, including a race official and a local police K-9 unit. She approached the finish line in a dead sprint surrounded by her mother, amazing friends, and her RunLab coaches.

Williamson and race official Rod Newlin. Credit RunLab.

“I loved the race and that I was able to race with all of my friends and inspire others,” said Williamson.

Roughly 125,000 participants, spectators, and volunteers enjoyed the 26th annual Austin Marathon, produced by High Five Events. Former Austinite Joe Thorne (2:32:05) and Austinite Allison Macsas (2:48:16) both won the marathon; while South Africa’s Sphamandla Nyembe (1:11:36) and former Austinite Allison Mendez (1:21:42) won the half marathon. FloTrack provided live coverage of the marathon and captured everyone as they crossed the finish line.

“Coming back to Austin was wonderful because it holds a special place in my heart,” said Thorne. “Being able to race and win the championship is amazing.”

Second and third place in the marathon for the men went to Daniel Bishop of Salt Lake City (2:33:02) and former Austinite Jared Carson (2:35:11). Central Park Track Club’s Caroline Veltri (2:58:36) and Austinite Jennifer Harney (3:07:26) finished the marathon second and third respectively.

Post-race Congress Ave.

“Although I’ve been involved in the Austin Marathon as a pacer for years, nothing could have prepared me for what a special experience it would be to race it for the first time,” said Allison Macsas, female marathon champ. “The local support out on the course and behind the scenes (thanks FloTrack!) was incredible, and played a huge part in carrying me through some very tough spots to the first marathon win of my life – a win made even more special by the fact that it was here at home!”

Adam Waldum of Cedar Park (1:12:33) and Nicholas Sterghos of Colorado Springs (1:16:05) finished second and third in Sunday’s half marathon. The second and third place females in the half marathon were Beth Panke (1:24:48) and Tracie Akerhielm (1:26:10).

FloTrack’s world-class coverage followed the men’s and women’s elite field throughout the race and watched as every participant crossed the line. At times they had a trio of announcers highlighting the Austin Marathon and interviewing staff, sponsors, and the winners live. Participants and spectators were both able to enjoy the enhanced finish line festival that included a beer garden, TriggerPoint Recovery Zone, two Jumbotrons that displayed FloTrack’s live coverage, and several local food trucks.

Macsas, Manzano, and Thorne. Credit – Manzano

Official Race Ambassador and two-time Olympian Leo Manzano pumped up the runners before they began their race. He was also the inspiration for the Manzano Mile, which was the final marathon, half marathon, and 5K. Manzano is known for his signature kick, which helped him win the silver medal at the London Games in 2012. Every participant kicked for their last mile and finished with the heart of a lion.

To cap off the amazing day Chikage Windler, CBS Austin Chief Meteorologist and Austin Gives Miles Charity Chaser, started the marathon in last place. As the Charity Chaser, she ran on behalf of Camp Kesem – University of Texas and raised $1.25 for every marathoner she passed. She finished in 926th place and raised $3671.25.

“The weather didn’t do us any favors, but I was humbled to run on behalf Camp Kesem UT,” said Windler. “And I’m already looking forward to next year!”

Mr. Clemmer, Jack Murray, and Mayor Adler

Participants can see their results on the website and continue to share their amazing experiences on the Austin Marathon’s social media channels. For those planning ahead to February 18, 2018, next year’s registration is open and set at the low price of $90 (marathon) and $70 (half marathon). This amazing deal will be available until January 25th. Runners can find their race day photos on Marathonfoto.com. Search for ‘Austin Marathon 2017’ and enter your last name or bib number.

The Austin Marathon would like to thank the volunteers, sponsors, spectators and participants They would also like to thank NXP CEO Richard Clemmer, Mayor Steve Adler, silver medalist Leo Manzano, and former race directors John and Stacey Conley for their race day support.

2017 Austin Marathon to Feature the Manzano Mile

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The Manzano Mile will encourage marathoners to finish with the heart of a lion.

High Five Events is excited to introduce the Manzano Mile on the course of the 2017 Austin Marathon® presented by NXP. The Manzano Mile, named for 2017 Austin Marathon Official Race Ambassador and 2012 Olympic silver medalist Leo Manzano, will be the final mile for the marathon. While running the Manzano Mile, participants can finish their race with their own signature kick, a tribute to Manzano’s signature kick that helped him earn his silver medal.

Manzano Mile“It is an honor to have the Austin Marathon name the final mile of the marathon as the Manzano Mile,” said Manzano. “I attribute my ability to finish to my family, friends, and all the wonderful people who have supported me along the way. I want every Austin Marathon participant to feel that same rush at their end of their race. I’m challenging friends, family, and every Austin resident to line the Manzano Mile and watch these runners finish with the heart of a lion!”

With complete race day branding, enhanced cheer zones, and increased crowd support, runners will be energized upon entering the Manzano Mile, completing their race with the heart of a lion. Timing mats will be placed with one mile to go and awards will be given for runners who complete the Manzano Mile the fastest. The highly decorated track star is a four-time USATF National Champion, seven-time Team USA member, two-time Olympian, and silver medalist in the 1500m at the 2012 Olympic Games, the first medal for USA in the 1500m since 1968.

“The Manzano Mile will elevate our event and give runners that extra push they need during the toughest mile of their race,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “There will be an endless energy at the end of the course in which runners and spectators feed off of one another, helping athletes finish stronger than ever before.”

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.

Austin Marathon and Olympian Leo Manzano Join Forces

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The 2012 Olympic silver medalist will be the Official Race Ambassador

High Five Events is excited to announce that two-time Olympian Leo Manzano will be the Official Race Ambassador for the 2017 Austin Marathon® presented by NXP. The partnership will highlight Manzano’s continued community involvement and position the Austin Marathon as one of the top marathons in the country.

“The Austin Marathon has been a pillar of generosity and community support to Austin; a race where people can accomplish their goals, overcome challenges, and truly discover themselves,” said Manzano. “I am proud to align myself with a community event of this magnitude, one that positively impacts tens of thousands of lives.”

Manzano’s role with the Austin Marathon will also include event promotions, social media engagement, and attending in-person marathon-related events leading up to and including race weekend. Additional race day activations are currently being planned. Manzano attended Marble Falls High School where he was a nine-time Texas 4A State champion in track and cross country. Manzano was accepted to The University of Texas and won five NCAA National Championships and was a nine-time All-American. The highly decorated track star is also a four-time USATF National Champion, seven-time Team USA member, two-time Olympian, and silver medalist in the 1500m at the 2012 Olympic Games, the first medal for USA in the 1500m since 1968.

“Leo is one of, if not the best runner to call Austin, Texas, home and we’re elated to have him be the Austin Marathon’s Official Race Ambassador,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “In addition to Leo’s current role, we’re working on race-day activations that’ll enhance the overall event and provide an even better racing experience on February 19th.”

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.