January 31st, 2013 
The city of Austin will wake early on Sunday, February 17, 2013 to one of the most inspirational events of the year. The LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and Paramount Break-A-Leg 5k events will span the entire weekend and culminate Sunday with races for charity, health, and life.
Over 20,000 participants representing all 50 states and 40 countries will line up at the Capitol and set out on a running tour of Austin. Attendance numbers continue to be impressive: race officials anticipate that 30,000 cheering fans will arrive to show their support for runners throughout the course.
The 26 Miles For 26 Charities organization was launched in 2008 to promote the philanthropic aspect of the race. One charity will sponsor each mile the runners will trek. “We take about 29 miles of roadway throughout race day and, in addition to this, the Austin community provides incredible energy in terms of music and spectators. We wanted to give back to the community and 26 Miles For 26 Charities was a way to do this,” said race official Ari Witkin. Each non-profit will man a water booth with 75 to 100 volunteers and provide encouragement to participants while adding their unique missions to the race.
The spectacular staging of the Austin Marathon (Photo Credit: Green Mountain Cleaner Times)
So where will the hottest spots be on race day? The LIVESTRONG Mile, along east 6th street, will be a “huge energy zone” according to Witkin. Runners will pass in front of the LIVESTRONG Foundation and be greeted by yellow-clad staff and volunteers. Another promising spot is the finish line—reputed to be one of the best in the marathon business. The “Finish Line Festival” is the point of reunion for runners and their loved ones. The atmosphere is one of high emotions set against a backdrop of quintessential Austin elements: live music and food trucks. Along the course, spectators will see the community engaged in various other ways like church-hosted block parties (in place of regular Sunday worship), coffee shops and restaurants with extended business hours, and friendly neighbors watching from front porches.
To get involved as a volunteer or to plan your day as a spectator on this special day visit the LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon website.
WHEN: Friday, February 15, 2013 – Sunday, February 17, 2013. The race itself lasts from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the 17th.
WHERE:
Start Line
16th Street and Congress
Austin,TX 78705
Ph. 512-476-RACE
REGISTRATION: Please visit the LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon website.
