Austin Marathon

Location: Austin, Texas
Country: United States
Website: https://youraustinmarathon.com
2025 Marathon Date: 16/02/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 15/02/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:18:56
% Sub-3s: 1–2%
# Sub-3s: 50–99
Total Runners: 5k–10k

The Austin Marathon is held each February in Austin, Texas, a city known for its vibrant culture, live music, and rolling topography. The event is one of the largest marathons in the southern United States and attracts a wide range of runners, from local club athletes to destination-focused visitors looking for a well-organised and challenging winter race.

The course starts and finishes in downtown Austin and follows a loop through historic neighbourhoods, urban parks, and outlying residential areas. The route is consistently undulating, with several long uphill stretches, short descents, and steady rollers that demand strategic pacing and leg strength. It is not a flat course, and runners should prepare for a grind rather than a glide.

February conditions in Austin are variable but often cool and dry. Start-line temperatures typically range between 5–10°C, though late-race conditions can warm considerably under the Texas sun. Wind is not usually a major factor, and rain is uncommon. These conditions support solid efforts, particularly for runners who manage their energy well across the hills.

The race is known for its enthusiastic crowd support, particularly in downtown and along well-populated neighbourhood sections. Bands and cheer zones line the course, and local residents often gather to create an encouraging and festive atmosphere. Aid stations are regular, well-stocked and spaced to suit varied pacing needs.

Austin’s infrastructure makes logistics straightforward, with accessible parking, good transport links, and compact expo and finish areas. The race features a strong field of regional competitors, though it lacks the depth of some of the bigger national marathons at the sub-3 level.

The Austin Marathon may not suit those hunting a personal best, but it offers a rewarding challenge for sub-3 aspirants who enjoy hills, atmosphere and a lively urban backdrop. For runners seeking to race hard without relying on perfect terrain, Austin offers a course that rewards grit and smart effort.