SUMMARY: Hilly, scenic course starting and finishing downtown Austin, TX

The Austin Marathon provides runners with an exhilarating and scenic journey through Texas' vibrant capital city. The race begins in downtown Austin, leading participants through a blend of urban landscapes and iconic landmarks, and finishes near the Texas State Capitol. This marathon is a test of endurance, with its challenging hills and lively atmosphere.

The course features significant elevation changes, particularly in the first half, which can test the stamina of even seasoned runners. Despite the demanding terrain, the marathon is well-supported with numerous aid stations providing water, electrolytes, and energy gels. The route takes runners through various neighborhoods, showcasing Austin's eclectic character and vibrant community spirit. The crowd support is exceptional, with enthusiastic spectators lining the streets, cheering runners on and providing motivation throughout the race.

The event is meticulously organized, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. The pre-race expo is well-run, offering a wide range of merchandise and an efficient packet pickup process. On race day, logistics are handled efficiently, with plenty of porta-potties, well-marked corrals, and a seamless gear check system. The post-race amenities include a variety of refreshments, live music, and a celebratory atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

One of the highlights of the marathon is the sense of community and camaraderie among participants and spectators. The support from local residents is overwhelming, creating an encouraging environment that helps runners tackle the challenging course. The finish line near the Texas State Capitol is a memorable spot, where participants receive a beautifully designed finisher's medal as a token of their accomplishment.

Austin Marathon

Human Interest Story

With 14,375 pounds of trash recycled last year it is no wonder the Austin Marathon has been named to Runners World Magazines “Top 10 Greenest Races” in North America”.  The Austin races have less trash, more recycling, no toxic chemicals in portable restrooms, composted food waste and solar power among a host of other "greener" implementations.

Austin Marathon tops list of green races

The 2009 Austin Marathon will bear the 
name of a new title sponsor as the two-year contract with AT&T has ended. 
AT&T helped elevate the race to sold-out capacities in both 2007 and 2008 
and introduced music and technology elements never before seen in the 
event.

Austin Marathon Title Sponsorsship Shifts From AT&T

The Roger Beasley Porsche Sub 2 Challenge has announced a $100,000 prize purse to the team that can set a record pace at the Silicon Labs Austin Marathon Relay on September 21 and clock a final time of less than two hours on the 26.2 mile course.  This prize purse is incentive to encourage participation by elite athletes and to provide spectators an opportunity to see these athletes compete in a unique event.  Marathon relay participants will need to average four and a half minute per mile pace on a road course that traverses downtown Austin.

Austin Marathon Relay Issues $100,000 Challenge to Runners

John Conley, who still runs 20 miles a week at age 50, will be celebrating the first birthday of his fledgling road race management company. Aside from being the director of the Austin Marathon, Conley, also assists with the Conquer the Coast Bicycle Ride in Corpus Christi, Komen Race for the Cure in Houston (the largest footrace in Texas), as well as the Texas Round-Up 10K. All of the races are now part of Conley Sports.

Austin Marathon

Austin Marathon - Race Reviews