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30th Annual Austin Marathon Registration Opens June 1st

Run Austin’s streets on Valentine’s Day and celebrate your accomplishments at the 30th annual Austin Marathon

Registration for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon presented by Under Armour officially opens Monday, June 1st. Every year, thousands travel to Austin to run the city’s streets. They soak up the amazing atmosphere and enjoy live music and delicious food. Participants earn finisher medal belt buckles, receive an Under Armour shirt, and celebrate at the 3-block-long finish line festival. Those who register before Friday, June 5th, will receive a free customized nameplate for their belt buckle finisher medal. The 30th annual Austin Marathon will take place on Sunday, February 14, 2021.

Image of the start of the 2020 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon. Registration for the 30th annual Austin Marathon opens on June 1st.“The energy and positivity you experience running the Austin Half Marathon is unlike any other race,” said London Brazil, who is training for her third Austin Half Marathon in as many years. “From the thousands cheering for you to the inspiring runners from around the world – this is a race I will make sure to never miss!”

Run The Live Music Capital of the World

On course, participants will enjoy 22 fully stocked aid stations with Nuun, two GU Energy Labs Nutrition Zones, and thousands of cheering spectators. Live music is placed strategically throughout the course to showcase The Live Music Capital of the World to participants and spectators alike. When runners cross the finish line, they can celebrate at a three-block-long party. It will feature the Under Armour recovery zone and the popular Oskar Blues beer garden. There will also be local food trucks, two Jumbotrons displaying FloTrack’s live coverage, and hours of live music.

Image of a group of five runners representing different Austin running groups before the 2020 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon. Registration for the 30th annual Austin Marathon opens on June 1st.

Everyone can continue their celebration at one of several Official Austin Marathon after-parties. Finishers of the Austin Marathon will receive a custom finisher’s shirt. The marathon will feature 34 Austin pacers and professional race-day photography from FinisherPix. 

“We’re excited for the 30th anniversary of the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon and have some big plans for Austin Marathon week,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “The Austin Marathon is more than just a run; it’s an unforgettable experience and a celebration that continues well after participants cross the finish line.”

The initial pricing structure follows: Austin Marathon ($109), Austin Half Marathon ($90), KXAN Simple Health 5K benefitting Paramount Theatre ($35). Participants can register for any distance and the Austin Marathon VIP Experience beginning June 1st.

World records set at 2020 Austin Marathon

Image of the Austin skyline as runners cross the Congress Avenue Bridge during the 2020 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon. Registration for the 30th annual Austin Marathon opens on June 1st.

Earlier this year, Austin’s premier running event featured more than 16,000 participants from all 50 states and 36 countries. Two world records were set at the Austin Marathon. Vicar David Peters, of Pflugerville, Texas, ran the world’s fastest marathon in a cassock. He completed the marathon in 4:06:49. Drake Muyinza set the other world record. He ran the world’s longest fashion runway on the streets of Austin and changed outfits every four miles. Austin Gives Miles presented by The Moody Foundation raised $702,500 for 25 Central Texas nonprofits.

Austin’s flagship running event annually attracts runners from all 50 states and 35+ countries around the world. The start and finish locations are just a few blocks apart. They are within walking distance of many downtown hotels and restaurants. The finish line is in front of the picturesque Texas State Capitol. The Austin Marathon is the perfect running weekend destination.

Austin Marathon Donates Nearly $23,000 to Paramount Theatre

Austin Marathon donates to Austin’s oldest theatre

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon presented by Under Armour donates $22,780 to Paramount Theatre. The donation, in conjunction with Austin Marathon weekend, has increased annually since High Five Events took over in 2017. Nearly 2400 participants registered for the KXAN SimpleHealth 5K benefitting Paramount Theatre. A portion of their registration fee supports the historic Austin theatre and its educational programs. The 5K is a part of Austin Marathon weekend and is the only 5K to run on historic South Congress Avenue.  

Image of the Paramount Theatre marquee displaying the name Austin Marathon KXAN SimpleHealth 5K benefitting Paramount Theatre.“We are thrilled to continue this partnership and be the recipient of funds from the KXAN SimpleHealth 5K. The funds from this event support our Education programs serving over 22,000 students each year. Performing, experiencing and learning through the arts helps all young people have the creative confidence they need to be successful in their communities,” said Maica Jordan, Chief Development Officer. “These funds have immediate and enormous impact on our ability to serve the students most in need. Thanks to all who participated in the 5K and we look forward to seeing you all again next year.”

About the Paramount Theatre

Inspired by the power of the arts to change lives, the Paramount Theatre strives to engage all Central Texans through extraordinary live performances and films, to ignite the intellect and imagination of our youths through Paramount Education programs, and to ensure the preservation of the crown jewels of downtown Austin. Constructed in 1915 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Paramount Theatre is one of the world’s few surviving examples of a fully operational early twentieth-century vaudeville theatre. More than 250,000 guests attend performing arts events, concerts, film, and talks downtown each year; the Paramount is a principal venue for the SXSW Film Festival, the Austin Film Festival, the Moontower Comedy Festival, and the Summer Classic Film Series

“The historic Paramount Theatre has a massive impact on Austin through its shows, community engagement, and educational programs,” said Jack Murray, co-owner High Five Events. “We’re excited to grow our partnership and proud to continue our support for the Paramount through the KXAN SimpleHealth 5K.”

2021 Austin Marathon

The Austin Marathon will celebrate its 30th year running in the capital of Texas on February 14, 2021. Austin’s flagship running event annually attracts runners from all 50 states and 35+ countries around the world. The start and finish locations are just a few blocks apart. They are within walking distance of many downtown hotels and restaurants. The finish line is in front of the picturesque Texas State Capitol. The Austin Marathon is the perfect running weekend destination. Registration is currently open.

Race Weekend Creates Lifelong Memories for Thousands of Participants

Race weekend saw two proposals, two new world records, and thousands of goals met and PRs set

On Sunday, Feb. 16th, the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon demonstrated why it is considered one of the world’s top running events. More than 16,000 participants registered for the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K. They traveled to Austin from all 50 states and 36 countries. Tens of thousands of spectators lined the Austin streets cheering on runners, waving hilarious signs, and providing endless energy. Everyone celebrated the day at the three-block-long finish line festival that showcased live music, beer garden, and local food trucks. The race weekend celebration continued well into the night at five Official Austin Marathon after-parties.

“Having the ring with me gave me an immense sense of purpose when pushing through the difficult moments in the race,” said Mark Pinales, who carried his now fiancée’s engagement ring with him for 26.2 miles. “I was scared of losing it but determined to finish as quickly as I could!”

World-class live broadcast

FloTrack’s live coverage followed the champions and the men’s and women’s elite fields for the marathon and half marathon. William Bertrand is the Austin Marathon champion (2:28:11). Kyle Allen (2:36:16) and Ryan Normand (2:37:45) rounded out the men’s marathon field. The male half marathoners finishing in the top three consisted of James Ngandu (1:04:26), Kevin Kochei (1:05:10), and Allen Sumrall (1:06:32).

Sarah Jackson is the Austin Marathon female champion (2:55:16). Elena Oslund (2:59:53) and Sara Striegel (3:08:51) finished the marathon second and third respectively. The top three female half marathon finishers were Allie Kieffer (1:14:29), Kathryn Fluehr (1:16:42), and Maura Tyrrell (1:20:39).

“After moving to Austin a year ago, I immediately knew I wanted to stay for a long time. Hearing so many friends cheer my name on the course yesterday, it felt like home,” said Kieffer, who ran the Austin Half Marathon as her final tune-up before the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials. “ I’m thrilled to win and excited to represent Austin at the Olympic Marathon Trials!”

Two new world records

Vicar David Peters, of Pflugerville, Texas, ran the world’s fastest marathon in a cassock. He completed the marathon in 4:06:49. Peters beat the previous record of four hours and 16 minutes. The next world-record was set by Drake Muyinza. He ran the world’s longest fashion runway on the streets of Austin and changed outfits every four miles. The previous record was two miles. Both Guinness World Records are awaiting official verification. The 2020 course was designed to provide a better participant and spectator experience and allow enhanced traffic flow along the course. Participants finish with the picturesque Texas State Capitol as their backdrop. Tens of thousands of spectators cheered along Austin streets. Race-course highlights include two GU Energy Labs Energy Zones, live music, 22 aid stations with nuun performance.

“I commend the runners for the work they accomplished and I’m so thankful to all the volunteers and people who came out to support us,” said Muyinza, who crossed the finish line in 6:18:04. “It may not have been my PR, but in the end, we set our world record and successfully pulled off seven unique looks in 26.2 miles. I hope everyone enjoyed the show!”

Another successful race weekend

Fleet Feet Austin began race weekend with the Austin Marathon Shakeout Run on Friday, Feb. 14th. At the Austin Marathon Health and Fitness Expo, participants tested the industry’s latest products and chatted with the Austin Marathon Pacers. They purchased Official Under Armour + Austin Marathon gear at the Fleet Feet Store, including the limited-edition Austin UA HOVR Machina. The two-day Austin Marathon expo took place on Friday, Feb. 14th, and Saturday, Feb. 15th. Hundreds of children, families, and elites participated in the Manzano Mile presented by Dole Packaged Foods on Saturday, Feb. 15th. Thousands participated in the family-friendly Austin Marathon KXAN Simple Health 5K. It began after the Austin Marathon and Austin Half Marathon.

“Sunday was such an amazing day, from beginning to end,” said Sarah Escobedo, who finished her second marathon in 3:50:13. “I loved the energy from all the spectators and cheer zones along the way and continuing the celebration at one of the Official Austin Marathon after-parties.”

30th anniversary – Feb. 14, 2021

Registration is open for the Austin Marathon’s 30th anniversary, scheduled for Feb. 14, 2021. Special pricing is set at $99 for the marathon, $80 for the half marathon, and $35 for the KXAN Simple Health 5K. This amazing deal will be available until Thursday, Feb. 20th. Don’t miss your chance to Run Austin, the #1 city in America. 2020 participants can see their results on the Austin Marathon website and continue to share their memorable experiences on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Runners can expect their FinisherPix race day photos to be ready in 24-48 hours after the race.

The Austin Marathon would like to thank the volunteers, spectators, and participants who made race weekend so special. They would also like to thank title sponsor Ascension Seton, Under Armour, The Moody Foundation, Camp Gladiator, GU Energy Labs, AfterShokz, Hilton of Austin, Fleet Feet Austin, Oskar Blues Brewery, KXAN, SPIbelt, Dole Packaged Foods, H-E-B, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Goodwill Central Texas, Alvies Boots, FloTrack, FinisherPix, Chameleon Cold-Brew, Austin Massage Company, Boy Scout Troop 49, nuun, the City of Austin, Austin Police Department, Department of Public Safety, CapMetro, and Travis County EMS.

Austin Marathon Prepares for One of the Largest Event Weekends

Event weekend will see two world record attempts, numerous events, and thousands of runners

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon presented by Under Armour is making final preparations for one of the largest event weekends in its 29 years. Highlights of this world-class event include four events for participants of all speed and abilities, two Guinness World Record attempts, and one 3-block-long finish line festival. The return of the FloSports live broadcast will highlight the elite field competition. The broadcast will showcase several elites in their final tune-up before the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials. More than 16,000 runners from all 50 states and 35 countries will run Austin’s streets. The 29th annual Austin Marathon, owned and produced by High Five Events, will take place on February 16, 2020.

“It’s amazing to see the growth of the Austin Marathon and I’m proud that the city of Austin continues to embrace and support Austin Marathon weekend,” said Leo Manzano, Olympic silver medalist and Austin Marathon Race Ambassador. “Everyone loves Austin Marathon weekend, from runners who travel from around the world to Austin families who complete the Manzano Mile together.”

Austin Marathon Shakeout Run will kick-off event weekend

Fleet Feet Austin will kick off Austin Marathon weekend by hosting the Austin Marathon Shakeout Run on Friday, Feb. 14th. At the Austin Marathon Health and Fitness Expo, visitors can test the industry’s latest products. Participants can chat with the Austin Marathon Pacers. They can also purchase Official Under Armour + Austin Marathon gear at the Fleet Feet Store. Available gear includes the limited-edition Austin UA HOVR Machina.

The two-day Austin Marathon expo will take place on Friday, Feb. 14th, and Saturday, Feb. 15th. Children, families, and elites will participate in the Manzano Mile presented by Dole Packaged Foods on Saturday, Feb. 15th. The family-friendly Austin Marathon KXAN Simple Health 5K will begin at 7:45 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 16th, 45 minutes after the Austin Marathon and Austin Half Marathon. Registration is still open.

Event weekend will see two Guinness World Record attempts

The first world-record attempt is by Drake Muyinza. He will attempt to run the world’s longest fashion runway by running 26.2 miles and changing outfits every four miles. The current record is two miles. The second world-record attempt is by Vicar David Peters. He will attempt to run the fastest marathon in a cassock, beating four hours and 16 minutes. Both Guinness World Record applications are still pending. The 2020 course was designed to provide a better participant and spectator experience and allow enhanced traffic flow along the course. Participants will still finish with the picturesque Texas State Capitol as their backdrop. Tens of thousands of spectators will cheer along Austin streets. Race-course highlights include two GU Energy Labs Energy Zones, live music, 22 aid stations with nuun performance.

“We are so excited to finally reveal this six-month project and highlight all the great Austin vintage sellers and artisans,” said Drake Muyinza, REB Vintage Stylist. “The looks have been styled and perfected, I’ve put in the training miles, and we’re pumped to put on an awesome show at the Austin Marathon for both the spectators and my fellow marathoners who have worked so hard for this day!”

Numerous ways for participants to celebrate their accomplishments

Sunday’s participants can enjoy the 3-block-long finish line festival. It will feature the Under Armour recovery zone. Participants will celebrate event weekend at the Oskar Blues Austin beer garden, Tito’s Handmade Vodka Shack Bar, and several local food trucks. Austin’s own Delivery Service and Fusion ATX will keep the finish line festival rocking for several hours. To cap off event weekend later in the afternoon, locations like Mean Eyed Cat, Cheer Up Charlies, and Hen House will host Official Austin Marathon after parties.

“The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon continues to grow along with the city and our growth indicates that the Austin Marathon is one of the top running destinations in the world,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “Our partnerships, love of Austin and running, and desire to produce a world-class event are all invested in our participant’s experience.”

FloTrack live broadcast

FloTrack, a sports media based in Austin, Texas, will highlight the Austin Marathon and Half Marathon’s Elite Athlete Program. Their race-day broadcast trio will consist of running connoisseurs Toni Reavis, Ryan Fenton, and Paras Shah. They will also have a camera capturing finishers as they cross the finish line. The following is a sample of the athletes in the Elite Field competing for the $20,000 prize purse: Keri McEntee (2020 Olympic Marathon Trials Qualifier), Anita Perez (2x Olympic Trials Marathon Qualifier), James Ngandu (2019 Austin Half Marathon champ), Becki Spellman (4x Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier), Taylor Dare (2020 Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier), Rory Tunningley (2020 Olympic Trials Marathon Qualifier), Igor Olefirenko (2019 London Marathon – 2:11:55).