High Five Events and EIGHT Beer Extend the Celebration for a Second Year of Refreshing Journeys

High Five Events, a leading private event production company in the United States, is delighted to announce the continuation of its successful partnership with EIGHT Beer as the Official Beer for the second consecutive year at the upcoming 3M Half Marathon in Austin, Texas. This collaboration ensures that EIGHT Beer, an innovative Austin-based independent brewery, will once again take center stage at the finish line festival’s exclusive beer garden for participants aged 21 and above. The eagerly awaited 30th annual 3M Half Marathon is scheduled to take place on January 21, 2024.

Ruchi Desai, EIGHT CEO said, “We’re honored to be part of the 3M Half Marathon festivities for the second year in a row. As a runner myself, I am excited to be participating in this iconic race alongside the motivating running community in Austin, our hometown. Looking forward to celebrating unforgettable moments and shared triumphs over an ice cold EIGHT in the beer garden post-race.”

Founded by NFL legend Troy Aikman, EIGHT is a meticulously crafted lager, boasting organic grains and a commitment to purity with no added adjuncts, fillers, or preservatives. At a modest 90 calories and 2.6g carbs per 12 oz serving, EIGHT will once again be featured in the EIGHT Beer Garden at the finish line festival, catering to both finishers and spectators. The garden will serve as a post-race haven where participants and their companions can gather, unwind, and savor a refreshing Eight beer. In addition to the delightful beverage, participants can explore a range of EIGHT-branded swag during the post-race festivities.

Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events, expressed enthusiasm about the continued partnership, stating, “Proudly born and raised in Austin, I can’t imagine a more fitting beer brand to collaborate with for the 3M Half Marathon.” We eagerly anticipate watching runners raise numerous celebratory toasts with EIGHT Beer in the EIGHT Beer Garden on race day.

The 3M Half Marathon is renowned for its rapid 13.1-mile course, featuring a predominantly downhill route that showcases Austin’s most picturesque locations. Starting in north Austin and culminating near the Texas State Capitol, the course boasts a 306′ net elevation drop. Registration for the event is open, and interested participants can sign up on the official website.

 

About High Five Events: High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, 3M Half Marathon, CapTex Triathlon and Kerrville Triathlon Festival. With over 150 years of combined experience, the High Five Events team specializes in organizing large-scale events across diverse venues, solidifying their presence on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 and 2020.

About EIGHT: EIGHT Elite Light Lager is a beer brewed for those who never settle. Founded by Troy Aikman, EIGHT is a clean, refreshing lager brewed with organic grains and no added adjuncts, fillers, or preservatives. Light Beer Made Right.    
Proudly based in Austin, TX, with a mission beyond the bar, EIGHT is committed to giving back 1% of all revenue to Texas-based causes that work tirelessly to make healthy living accessible to all. For more information, please visit www.eightbeer.com. Follow us on social media @drinkeightbeer. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. 

10 local bands will provide entertainment and showcase The Live Music Capital of the World

The 3M Half Marathon has finalized the lineup for its on-course entertainment for the point-to-point race happening this Sunday, January 21 in Austin, Texas.  The ten local bands and DJ join the race-day excitement and perform live music for participants along the 13.1 mile course.

“We’re excited to welcome the wide-ranging sounds of these local musicians,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “The energy of live music on course helps to provide motivation to the runners as they run through the different neighborhoods of Austin.  They help us showcase The Live Music Capital of the World.”

 

This year the 3M Half Marathon features the following bands:   Austin Taiko (Japanese Drumming), Everett Wren (Fiddler), Inside Out Stell Band (Steel Drum), Kupira Marimba (Zimbabwe Marimba), Austin Thaalam (Indian Drumming), Shirley Johnson (Accordion), The 4411, Woode Wood (Guitar & Harmonia), Stove Top Rangers (Banjo, String Bass, Guitar), Brian MacLeod, and DJ Gatsby in the Finish Line Festival.

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country and will celebrate its 30th year running in 2024. Runners will enjoy a point-to-point course with mostly downhill running that showcases some of Austin’s finest locations. Starting in north Austin and finishing near the Texas State Capitol, runners will appreciate a 306’ net elevation drop. Participants can register on the website.

Maximize Your Performance with GU’s Expert Nutrition Planning

Months of training lead up to your pursuit of a personal best at the 3M Half Marathon. To support your efforts, GU Energy Labs, the Official Energy Gel and Chew of the 3M Half Marathon, offers scientifically designed products to boost your energy levels when you need it most.

Revitalize at the GU Energy Zone at Mile 7

Be sure to visit the GU Energy Zone at Mile 7 for a burst of energy! Here, you’ll find GU gels and chews:

  • Strawberry Chews (with caffeine)
  • Lemon Sublime Gel (caffeine-free)
  • Chocolate Outrage Gel (with caffeine)
  • Salted Watermelon Gel (with caffeine)

Remember, your pre-race preparation is just as crucial as your race-day strategy. Let’s explore some tips to optimize your performance.

Fueling Tips Before Your Half Marathon

In the week leading up to the race, focus on hydrating and increasing your calorie intake, especially carbohydrates. Hydration is key – You can supplement your water intake with nuun hydration, available at all aid stations, to make sure you are getting the electrolytes your body needs to be sufficiently hydrated come race morning.

10 Low carb hit SvV | Voedingscentrum | FlickrThe Science of Carb-Loading

The Mayo Clinic recommends starting carb-loading a week before the event, increasing your carbohydrate intake to 8 to 12 grams per kilogram of body weight. When you combine carbohydrate loading and tapering your workouts, you can store more energy in your muscles which will give you more energy sources during your event.

Carbohydrate-Rich Foods to Consider:

  • One slice of bread
  • A 6-inch tortilla
  • 1/2 cup mashed potatoes or 1/2 medium baked potato or sweet potato
  • 1/3 cup rice
  • One small apple or two tangerines
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 3 cups green beans
  • 1 1/4 cup milk or yogurt

Image of GU Energy Labs' half marathon nutrition plan. GU is the Official Energy Gel and Chew of the 3M Half Marathon. Click on this image to download the nutrition plan that can help you perform your best on race day.On race morning, aim to eat 2-3 hours before starting to avoid a heavy stomach. If you oversleep, opt for a lighter meal with liquid or gel carbs.

On Course Fueling: Personalize Your Nutrition Plan

We understand that planning your race nutrition can be daunting, so we recommend utilizing the GU Half Marathon Nutrition Planner. This tool helps you customize your nutrition plan based on various factors like your body size, the race’s intensity, and personal preferences.

Here’s how to use GU’s Nutrition Planner

    1. Pick your goal finishing time and find out what your average pace will be
    2. Use the table to determine your total nutritional need for the event
    3. Mix and match your favorite products and flavors, then calculate your totals
    4. Make sure your plan meets your body’s demand for each nutritional element

 

As you count down the days to the 3M Half Marathon, remember that your nutrition is as vital as your training. By following these guidelines and tailoring them to your personal needs, you’ll step up to the starting line with confidence, knowing you’re well-prepared to tackle every mile. Whether it’s your first half marathon or you’re a seasoned pro aiming for a new record, the right nutrition strategy can make all the difference.

We’re thrilled to support you on this journey and can’t wait to cheer you on as you cross that finish line. Remember, the 3M Half Marathon isn’t just about reaching the finish line – it’s about the exhilarating experience, the personal achievements, and the story you’ll tell after conquering those 13.1 miles.

Here’s to a race filled with energy, strength, and unforgettable moments. See you at the finish line!