Spurs Austin International Half Welcomes Runners From Across the Globe for Its 32nd Annual Event

Over 6,000 participants set to take on Austin’s iconic “Downhill to Downtown” course

The Spurs Austin International Half, formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, will host over 6,000 participants from 50 states and 21 countries on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Marking its 32nd annual event, the race enters a new era with the Spurs as its title sponsor, bringing together two iconic Texas brands rooted in community, performance, and pride. Runners will experience the popular 13.1-mile net downhill route from North Austin to the downtown finish line along the famed “Downhill to Downtown” course. 

The 2026 Spurs Austin International Half will showcase a premier elite field, attracting top-level competitors to one of the fastest courses in the region. A $10,000 prize purse, split between the top male and female finishers, underscores the event’s growing stature and commitment to high-caliber competition, further solidifying its place among the leading half marathons in Texas.

The pre-race activities begin with the Expo and Packet Pick-Up at the Palmer Events Center. The Expo is free and open to the public and will be open on Friday, January 16, from 1 PM to 7 PM, and Saturday, January 17, from 10 AM to 5 PM. The Expo features a curated list of more than 25 exhibitors, showcasing the latest in running, fitness, health, and local Austin brands. Registered participants will also receive their fully sublimated event shirts and swag bags, including a commemorative patch and an event running hat.

On Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 7:30 AM, individual participants and two-person relay teams will take on the fast “Downhill to Downtown” course, featuring a 300-foot drop in elevation from the start at Gateway Shopping Center. Runners will be supported along the way with BPN electrolytes and BPN Go Gels, along with motivation provided by 10 live local bands throughout the course.  

The culmination of the event is the Spurs Austin International Half Finish Line Festival, designed to celebrate participant accomplishments. Finishers will receive a spinning medal to commemorate their effort and are encouraged to ring the official PR Gong to acknowledge Personal Records. The festival features recovery snacks including H-E-B favorites, post-race hydration, and the Meanwhile Beer Garden for participants aged 21 and over. Food trucks will also be on-site as the festival welcomes sponsors, exhibitors, and the local community to celebrate the spirit of the event.

“The Spurs Austin International Half has become a destination event, drawing runners from nearly every state and from countries around the world,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of the event. “We’re proud to begin our first year with the Spurs as title sponsor, a partnership rooted in shared values of performance, pride, and community. “

Registration for the 2026 Spurs Austin International Half is still open. Runners interested in joining this iconic Austin tradition can sign up by visiting the official event website.

 

About Spurs Austin International Half 

The Spurs Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, is one of Texas’ fastest and most exciting 13.1-mile events. Established in 1995, it features a net-downhill course that winds through Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods and finishes downtown. Runners enjoy a high-energy experience with live music, enthusiastic spectators, and top-tier course support. With PR potential, great swag, and an unbeatable Austin spirit, this event welcomes runners of all levels. Learn more at AustinInternationalHalf.com.

Spurs Austin International Half Turns Up the Volume with 10 Bands on Course

Runners will experience Austin’s music Scene from start to finish

The Spurs Austin International Half is bringing the sound of Austin to the streets on Sunday, January 18, delivering an elevated race-day experience with live music at every mile. Formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, the event continues its evolution with a finalized on-course entertainment lineup featuring 10 local bands along the 13.1-mile point-to-point route.

From north Austin to the finish near the Texas State Capitol, runners will be energized by an eclectic mix of musical styles that reflect the city’s deep cultural roots and reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World. Each mile marker will offer a new soundtrack, designed to motivate runners and create a festival-like atmosphere throughout the race.

“Live music has always been part of the DNA of this event,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “By placing bands throughout the course, we’re giving runners something to look forward to at every mile, whether it’s a drumbeat that pushes them uphill or a familiar tune that carries them to the finish. It’s a uniquely Austin experience you won’t find anywhere else.”

The 2026 on-course entertainment lineup includes: Austin Taiko (Japanese drumming), Everett Wren (fiddle), Inside Out Steel Band (steel drum), Kupira Marimba (Zimbabwean marimba), Austin Thaalam (Indian drumming), Nathan Harlan ( Acoustic Guitar), Shirley Johnson (accordion), Woode Wood (guitar and harmonica), Stove Top Rangers (banjo, string bass, guitar), and Brian MacLeod.

The Spurs Austin International Half is known as one of the fastest half marathon courses in the country, featuring a predominantly downhill, point-to-point route with a 306-foot net elevation drop. Registration is currently open for runners looking to combine speed, scenery, and sound on race day.Participants can register on the website.

 

About Spurs Austin International Half 

The Spurs Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, is one of Texas’ fastest and most exciting 13.1-mile events. Established in 1995, it features a net-downhill course that winds through Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods and finishes downtown. Runners enjoy a high-energy experience with live music, enthusiastic spectators, and top-tier course support. With PR potential, great swag, and an unbeatable Austin spirit, this event welcomes runners of all levels. Learn more at AustinInternationalHalf.com.

The Final 10 Days: How to Fine Tune Your Training Before Race Day

You have put in the miles, followed the plan, and now race day is almost here. The final 10 days before your race are not about gaining fitness. They are about sharpening what you already have. This is the time to fine tune, trust your training, and set yourself up to feel strong, confident, and ready when you step up to the start line.

Below is a smart approach to the final push that helps you arrive rested, focused, and prepared.

1. Lock In Your Pace Strategy

By this point, you should have a clear idea of your goal pace or at least a realistic range. Use the final 10 days to confirm your strategy rather than test it.

Practice race pace in short, controlled segments during your remaining workouts. These efforts should feel smooth and familiar, not exhausting. Avoid all out runs or long, hard efforts that could leave lingering fatigue. It is also helpful to plan for flexibility. Conditions like weather, crowds, or adrenaline can affect how you feel early on, so having a primary pace goal and a backup option can help you stay calm and in control.

A steady, confident start almost always leads to a stronger finish.

2. Prioritize Rest and Recovery

Rest becomes just as important as running in the final stretch. This is when your body absorbs the work you have already done.

You will likely still run several days, but distances should be shorter and effort easier. Pay close attention to how your body feels. Minor tightness is normal, but pain is not something to push through. Extra rest now can prevent issues on race day. Sleep also plays a huge role, so aim for consistent bedtimes and quality rest throughout the final week.

Feeling a little antsy or extra energetic is a good sign. It means your body is recovering well.

3. Focus on Small but Meaningful Tweaks

This is not the time for big changes, but small details can make a noticeable difference.

Stick with your proven fueling and hydration plan and practice it one last time. Make sure all your race gear is finalized, including shoes, socks, and clothing you have already tested. Gentle mobility work, such as light stretching or foam rolling, can help keep your legs loose without adding stress.

The goal is comfort and familiarity, not experimentation.

4. Strengthen Your Mental Game

The taper period can feel mentally challenging since you are running less and have more time to think. This is completely normal.

Spend time visualizing the race from start to finish, including how you will handle tougher moments. Remind yourself of the hard workouts you completed and the progress you made throughout training. Focus on what you can control and let go of what you cannot.

Confidence comes from trusting the work you have already done.

5. Trust Your Training

The final days before a race are about arriving healthy, rested, and mentally ready. You are not losing fitness by easing back. You are setting yourself up to perform at your best.

As race morning approaches, trust the process, stay patient, and remember that your preparation has led you here. When you toe the line at the Spurs Austin International Half, smart pacing, intentional rest, and those small final adjustments can help turn months of training into a strong and rewarding race day experience.

Dealing with Pre-Race Nerves: Tips for Staying Calm and Confident

Pre-race nerves are part of the experience, whether it’s your first half marathon or your fiftieth. A little anxiety can sharpen focus and boost performance, but too much can drain energy before you even toe the start line. As race day approaches for the Spurs Austin International Half, here are practical, proven strategies to help you manage race-day jitters and show up feeling calm, confident, and ready to run.

1. Normalize the Nerves

First things first: nerves are normal. Butterflies mean you care. Nearly every runner, from elites to first-timers, feels some level of pre-race anxiety. Instead of fighting it, reframe it as excitement. Your body is gearing up to do something challenging and meaningful.

Try this: When nerves pop up, tell yourself, “This is my body preparing me to race.”

2. Trust the Training

Confidence comes from preparation. You’ve logged the miles, practiced long runs, and pushed through tough workouts. Race day isn’t about proving anything new—it’s about executing what you already know how to do.

Tip: Make a short list of workouts you’re proud of and revisit it the week of the race. Let the evidence remind you that you’re ready.

3. Create a Simple Race Plan

Uncertainty fuels anxiety. A clear, realistic race plan helps quiet the “what ifs.”

Your plan should include:

  • Goal pace or effort (with flexibility)
  • Hydration strategy (when and how often)
  • Fueling plan (what you’ll take and when)
  • One or two course landmarks to look forward to

Keep it simple. You don’t need a mile-by-mile script—just a framework you can trust.

4. Control What You Can

You can’t control the weather, other runners, or unexpected hiccups. You can control your preparation, mindset, and response.

Focus on:

  • Laying out your gear the night before
  • Knowing transportation and start-line logistics
  • Fueling and hydrating consistently in the days leading up

Preparation reduces decision fatigue and frees up mental space on race morning.

5. Practice Calm Breathing

Anxiety often shows up physically: tight shoulders, shallow breathing, racing thoughts. Intentional breathing can reset your nervous system in minutes.

Try this breathing reset:

  • Inhale through your nose for 4 counts
  • Hold for 2 counts
  • Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 counts
  • Repeat for 2–3 minutes

Use this while waiting in the corral, during the anthem, or anytime nerves spike.

6. Visualize Success (Not Perfection)

Visualization isn’t about imagining a flawless race, it’s about seeing yourself handle challenges with confidence.

Picture:

  • Settling into your rhythm early
  • Staying relaxed through the middle miles
  • Managing fatigue with steady effort
  • Crossing the finish line proud of your work

When your mind has already “been there,” race day feels more familiar and less intimidating.

7. Stick to What You Know

Race week is not the time for experiments. New shoes, new fuel, or drastic changes to routine can heighten anxiety.

Race-week rule: Nothing new on race day. Familiarity builds confidence.

8. Lean Into the Energy

The Spurs Austin International Half is known for its enthusiastic crowd support, on-course music, and electric start-line energy. Let it carry you.

Smile. High-five a spectator. Lock into the rhythm of the course. Community energy can turn nerves into momentum.

9. Redefine Success

Success isn’t only about a finish time. It can be:

  • Running strong through the final miles
  • Executing your fueling plan
  • Staying mentally resilient when things get tough
  • Enjoying the experience from start to finish

When success has multiple definitions, pressure loosens its grip.

10. Remember Why You’re Here

At the core of every race is a reason: personal growth, health, community, celebration, or simply the love of running. When nerves creep in, reconnect with your “why.”

You’ve earned your place at the starting line.

Final Thought

Pre-race nerves don’t mean you’re unprepared, they mean you’re invested. With the right mindset and a few calming strategies, you can turn anxiety into confidence and excitement.

On race day, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and enjoy every mile of the Spurs Austin International Half. You’re ready.

Race Day Tips: Navigating the Course and Maximizing Your Experience

Race day is almost here—and all the early mornings, long runs, and miles logged are about to pay off. Whether this is your first Spurs Austin International Half Marathon or you’re chasing a new PR, having a solid race-day strategy can make all the difference. From pacing smart to staying fueled and knowing what to expect on course, here’s how to navigate race day and make the most of every mile.

1. Start Smart: Pacing Is Everything

One of the biggest race-day mistakes? Going out too fast. With race-day energy, music, spectators, and adrenaline, the first few miles can feel effortless—but restraint early sets you up for success later.

Pacing tips:

  • Run the first 2–3 miles slightly slower than goal pace. Let your body warm up.
  • Lock into your goal pace by miles 4–9. This is where patience pays off.
  • Save energy for the final miles. If you’re feeling strong after mile 10, that’s your cue to push.

Remember: a controlled start often leads to a stronger, faster finish.

2. Hydration & Fueling: Small Sips, Big Impact

Staying hydrated and fueled is critical—especially on a rolling, energetic course like Austin’s.

Hydration strategy:

  • Begin hydrating early and consistently—don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
  • Take small sips at aid stations, not full cups.
  • If you’ve trained with sports drink or gels, stick with what you know on race day.

Fueling isn’t just for later miles—taking in calories early helps prevent fatigue and keeps energy levels steady.

3. Know the Course: Break It Into Sections

Understanding the course helps mentally—and physically—prepare for race day. Instead of thinking about all 13.1 miles at once, break the course into manageable segments.

Course mindset tips:

  • Early miles: Stay relaxed, find your rhythm, and ignore the urge to surge.
  • Middle miles: Focus on form, fueling, and steady pacing.
  • Final miles: Use landmarks, crowd energy, and the finish line excitement to stay motivated.

Knowing where to expect turns, crowds, or quieter stretches can help you stay calm and confident throughout the race.

4. Use the Energy Around You

The Spurs Austin International Half Marathon is known for its electric atmosphere. Spectators, volunteers, music, and fellow runners all play a role in lifting you when things get tough.

How to maximize the experience:

  • Make eye contact with volunteers and say thank you—it boosts morale.
  • Let the crowd energy carry you through challenging moments.
  • Run your race, but enjoy the shared experience with thousands of other runners.

You trained hard for this—don’t forget to soak it all in.

5. Finish Strong (and Celebrate!)

As you approach the final stretch, trust your training. Focus on good posture, quick turnover, and controlled breathing. When you see the finish line, give it everything you have—you’ve earned it.

After crossing the line:

  • Keep moving to help recovery.
  • Rehydrate and refuel.
  • Celebrate the accomplishment—PR or not, finishing a half marathon is a huge win.

Final Thoughts

Race day is the celebration of all your hard work. Pace smart, fuel consistently, stay present, and enjoy every mile of the Spurs Austin International Half Marathon. We can’t wait to cheer you on as you take on 13.1 miles through Austin.

See you at the start line—and at the finish! ‍♂️‍♀️