Austin Marathon Draws Thousands of Runners to Central Texas

The 35th annual event brings elite and amateur athletes to the streets of Austin.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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On a chilly Sunday morning, over 30,000 runners took to the streets of downtown Austin for the 35th annual Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K. The event, which has been a fixture in the city for over three decades, drew a large crowd of elite and amateur athletes to compete in the various races.

Why it matters

The Austin Marathon is a major annual event that showcases the city's vibrant running community and attracts participants from across the region. The race also provides an economic boost to local businesses and highlights Austin's reputation as an active, health-conscious city.

The details

The marathon, half marathon, and 5K races all started with the bang of a gong, sending the runners on their way through the closed-off streets of downtown Austin. The event featured a mix of elite competitors and amateur athletes of all ages and skill levels.

  • The 35th annual Austin Marathon took place on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
  • The races began in the early morning hours, with the starting gun firing at 7 a.m.

The players

Austin Marathon

An annual running event that has been held in Austin, Texas for the past 35 years.

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The takeaway

The Austin Marathon continues to be a beloved tradition in the city, drawing thousands of runners to the streets and showcasing Austin's vibrant running culture and active lifestyle.