,

Bare Performance Nutrition Continues as Official Hydration and Gel Partner for Austin International Half 2026

Elite Nutrition Brand Returns to Fuel Runners at Premier Austin Race

The Austin International Half, formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, proudly announces the continuation of its partnership with Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) as the official on-course hydration and gel provider for the upcoming 2026 event, scheduled for January 18, 2026. This renewed collaboration ensures that participants will be fueled with high-quality sports nutrition throughout the race.

As the Austin International Half embarks on its new identity while building on a rich history, the steadfast support from Bare Performance Nutrition underscores a shared commitment to athlete performance and well-being. BPN’s comprehensive range of hydration and energy gel products will be strategically available along the race course, providing runners with the essential nutrients needed to sustain their efforts and achieve their personal bests on race day.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Bare Performance Nutrition for a second year,” said Megan Frausto, Partnership Manager of the Austin International Half. “BPN’s commitment to quality and performance mirrors our mission to support every runner with top-tier resources. Their trusted hydration and nutrition products elevate the athlete experience, and we’re excited to once again bring that value to our participants”

The decision to renew the partnership reflects the proven success of BPN’s products in supporting endurance athletes and the positive feedback from past participants. Both organizations are dedicated to delivering an exceptional race experience, and BPN’s reputation for science-backed, high-quality supplements aligns perfectly with the Austin International Half’s mission to host a world-class event that prioritizes runner health and performance. This collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of the race’s commitment to excellence.

“BPN couldn’t be more excited to continue fueling the committed athletes of Austin, Texas as the Austin International Half on course nutrition sponsor in 2026. We love the energy of this race, the course profile and the runners who show up to throw down. There isn’t any better way to kick off the new year and we’re proud to be a part of it.” – Nick Bare, Founder of BPN

 

 

About Austin International Half: The 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.

About BPN: Our vision is to fuel performance and elevate athletic potential. We obsess over equipping people with the highest quality fuel, authentic creativity, and a team of committed people to Go One More. We are a brand for the committed. Those unwavering in the pursuit of their goals — never accepting mediocrity.

,

SPORTS TEAMS LAUNCH ‘TEXAS SPORT FOR HEALING FUND’ AND NATIONAL AUCTION TO SUPPORT HILL COUNTRY FLOOD RELIEF

Thirty-Nine Organizations Unite to Aid Long-term Recovery Efforts for Communities Impacted by July Flooding

In response to the devastating flooding in Central Texas, 39 local and national professional sports organizations have joined efforts to launch the “Texas Sport for Healing Fund.” Starting today, fans can support relief efforts through a national online auction featuring over 150 pieces of rare sports memorabilia from more than 80 sports teams and players.

This fund will support both immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery for the communities directly impacted by the flooding. The auction will close on Friday, August 8 and all auction proceeds will support the Texas Sport for Healing Fund.

The following organizations, including representatives from multiple professional sports leagues in Texas, have come together to provide the initial funding:

  • Austin FC
  • Austin Marathon
  • Austin Spurs
  • Bryson DeChambeau Foundation
  • Cleburne Railroaders
  • Circuit of The Americas
  • Dallas Cowboys
  • Dallas Mavericks
  • Dallas Stars
  • Dallas Trinity FC
  • Dallas Wings Community Foundation
  • El Paso Locomotive FC
  • Faith Fight Finish Foundation
  • FC Dallas
  • Frisco RoughRiders
  • Houston Astros
  • Houston Dynamo
  • Houston Dash
  • Houston Rockets
  • Houston SaberCats
  • Houston Texans
  • Hunt Sports Group
  • The Jordan Spieth Family Foundation
  • Just Keep Livin’ Foundation
  • LOVB Austin
  • LOVB Houston
  • Meredith and Scottie Scheffler
  • NBA Foundation
  • NBA Players Association
  • Nolan Ryan Foundation
  • PBR Austin Gamblers
  • PBR Texas Rattlers
  • Round Rock Express
  • REV Entertainment
  • San Antonio Spurs
  • Texas Legends
  • Texas Rangers
  • Texas Stars
  • The US Tennis Association

This investment will better the lives of those affected by the flooding by providing long-term improvements such as access to mental health resources, community programming and the creation of safe places where young people can come together and heal from tragedy. Collectively, these teams have already contributed over $6.3 million to flood relief efforts to date, with funds going to support various organizations including the Texas Sport for Healing Fund. Spurs Sports & Entertainment (SS&E) is managing the fund in conjunction with San Antonio Area Foundation (SAF). A panel of representatives from the founding teams will work collaboratively with SAF, alongside Central Texas community partners and local organizations on the ground, to routinely evaluate and identify additional recipients as needs evolve.

Fans who would like to join the Texas and national sports community by contributing to the fund are invited to donate here.

 

National Auction Live Now

Community members can take part in the multi-franchise auction to drive visibility and support to the cause, featuring sports memorabilia and merchandise donated by over 80 teams. Teams from across the country, spanning a wide range of professional leagues, have donated over 150 items to the auction such as game tickets, autographed sports equipment, jerseys, game balls and more to be added in the coming days, as a show of the national sports industry’s solidarity and support for the Texas community in this time of need. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to the Texas Sport for Healing Fund.

 

About Texas Sport for Healing

Members of the Texas national professional sports communities have joined efforts to form the “Texas Sport for Healing Fund.” The fund will provide long-term support for Texas communities directly impacted by tragedy throughout the state by investing in the needs of youth and families who have been most affected. Together, we are Texas Strong.

 

Media Contact:

Tina Teich
Marketing Manager, High Five Events
Info@runaih.com

,

Austin International Half Partners with HotelPlanner for 2026 Event

Delivering Seamless Lodging Solutions for a World-Class Race Weekend in Austin

The Austin International Half, formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, is proud to announce its partnership with HotelPlanner, a leading travel technology platform specializing in customized hotel booking solutions. As the Official Hotel Provider for the 2026 race, HotelPlanner will offer participants, spectators, and race staff exclusive access to curated lodging options for the event weekend, scheduled for January 18, 2026.

This collaboration ensures a seamless travel experience for all attendees, providing a wide array of accommodation choices through HotelPlanner’s user-friendly booking platform. Whether seeking group reservations, flexible booking terms, or affordable options near the race course, travelers can rely on HotelPlanner for a stress-free stay.

“HotelPlanner understands the unique needs of endurance athletes and event travelers,” said Eleanor Stein, Sales and Junior Partnership Manager for the Austin International Half. “Their partnership helps us deliver a seamless, all-in-one race weekend experience—from the starting line to check-in. We’re excited to give our runners and their supporters an easy way to stay connected to the action in Austin.”

The 2026 race weekend begins with a two-day Health and Fitness Expo, held January 16–17, followed by the main event on Sunday, January 18. Through the Austin International Half’s dedicated HotelPlanner page, runners and fans can explore and reserve accommodations across the city’s most energetic and scenic areas.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the Austin International Half course winds through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and concludes at the steps of the Texas State Capitol. The event features live music, a fast, mostly downhill course, and the lively Finish Line Festival, complete with photo ops, a beer garden, and a full Austin experience. Registration for all distances is open at DownhillToDowntown.com.

 

About the Austin International Half: The Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, has been one of Austin’s premier running events since its establishment in 1995. With a reputation for its fast and picturesque course, the race attracts runners of all levels from around the world. Organized by High Five Events, the Austin International Half is a celebration of athleticism, determination, and the vibrant running community in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit DownhillToDowntown.com.

About HotelPlanner: HotelPlanner, a leading travel technology company that combines proprietary artificial intelligence agents (HotelPlanner.ai) and a 24/7 global gig-based reservations and customer service network. The HotelPlanner platform provides comprehensive hotel booking services to individuals and groups worldwide. With a vast network of hotels and a user-friendly interface, Hotel Planner makes it easy to find and book the perfect accommodations for any type of travel.

,

Exhibitor Registration Now Open for the 2026 Austin International Half

Limited Spaces Available at Health & Fitness Expo and Finish Line Festival

The Austin International Half, formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, is excited to announce that exhibitor registration is now open for the upcoming event’s Health and Fitness Expo, set to take place on Friday, January 16, and Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Palmer Events Center. This highly anticipated event attracts thousands of runners and spectators from around the world, offering exhibitors an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their products and services to a vibrant and engaged audience.

The two day Health and Fitness Expo runs in conjunction with the event’s Packet Pick Up giving exhibitors the chance to engage with participants, their friends and family, and the general public. In addition to the expo, exhibitors can register for a booth at the finish line festival on race day, January 18, 2026. Exhibitors are invited to sell, preview, showcase and sample their products and services. 

The Austin International Half is introducing new benefits for exhibitors to enhance brand visibility and streamline race weekend logistics:

  • $10 Discount Code: Exhibitors will receive a race registration code to share with their audiences.
  • Team Running Opportunities: Companies can organize employee or ambassador teams to participate in the race under their brand.
  • Exhibitor Lounge: A designated space with light refreshments for exhibitors during event hours.

“We’re proud to welcome exhibitors to a race weekend that truly reflects Austin’s vibrant culture and commitment to healthy living,” said Megan Frausto, partnership manager for the Austin International Half. “Whether you’re launching a new product or connecting with our passionate community of runners, this event offers an incredible platform to showcase your brand and be part of an unforgettable experience in the heart of Texas.”

The 2026 Expo will feature over 30 exhibitor booths, exclusively for health and fitness enterprises and similar organizations with an anticipated 18,000 plus attendees over the two days. This event offers a unique platform for businesses to engage with a passionate audience interested in running and health-related products and services. Detailed pricing and booth-related information can be found on our registration page for those interested in securing a spot at the expo.

The Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, is renowned as one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the world. Runners will enjoy a predominantly downhill, point-to-point route that highlights some of Austin’s most iconic locations. The race starts in north Austin and finishes downtown near the majestic Texas State Capitol. The popular two person relay team option will also be available again this year. Participants can complete their registration through the official website.

About the Austin International Half: Formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, the Austin International Half is a celebrated point-to-point race with over 30 years of history. Participants enjoy a fast, downhill  course that finishes in vibrant downtown Austin. Renowned for its net downhill route and expert organization, this event draws athletes globally and embodies Austin’s dynamic culture with its lively post-race festivities.

,

Runners Shine at the Austin International Half

A Celebration of Endurance, Community, and Austin’s Iconic Course

AUSTIN, Texas, January 19, 2025 – Over 5,200 runners from 47 states and 14 countries laced up for the Austin International Half, formerly known as 3M Half Marathon, on Sunday, January 19th. These athletes took on Austin’s vibrant streets, racing along one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country. The day was marked by numerous personal achievements, creating an uplifting atmosphere within the running community. 

“Each year, this event gets better and better, and this year was truly one for the books,” said Stacy Keese, Co-Owner of High Five Events. “The sound of the PR gong ringing throughout the day was like music to our ears, a true celebration of so many personal achievements. And let’s not forget Blaze! Our fiery, unstoppable mascot brought an extra spark to the event, embodying the spirit of innovation, community, and the unstoppable energy that makes this race special!”

“We were so excited to be out and support thousands of committed runners this morning at the Austin International Half”, said Dr. Keeli Hanzelka, Medical Director for Ascension Seton Event Medicine. “While some people may worry about running in the cold, as long as precautions are taken and proper clothing worn, the cold actually helps prevent some of the more common things we see at the finish line medical tent such as dehydration and hyperthermia. Congratulations to all the runners that finished strong and rang the personal record gong!”

Securing victory in the 2025 Austin International Half in a sprint finish was Haftu Knight of Austin, TX, crossing the finish line in an impressive 1:04:49. Followed closely by Victor Shitsama of Stillwater, OK, claiming second place in 1:04:50, while third place went to Connor Weaver of Lewisville, TX, with a finishing time of 1:05:14.

Blazing to the finish line, Austin local, Allie Kieffer was the first woman across the line in 1:12:55. Following Allie was Libby Benzer of Orchard Park, NY at 1:13:11 and Stevi Clark of New Braunfels, TX coming across third in 1:14:25.

“I fell in love with running in the amazing city of Austin, Texas. The energy at this morning’s race was nostalgic to those early days. The air was brisk, streets were fast and thousands of committed runners lined up to throw down 13.1 miles. I loved seeing our Go Gels and Electrolytes on course fueling athletes and pushing them to reach their full potential. I can’t wait for the Austin Marathon next month to relive the experience that we all felt from today. Go One More,” said Nick Bare, BPN Founder and CEO. 

First time participant Preston Bennett remarked “The Austin International Half was so much fun! From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized, fast, and full of energy. The downhill course was just what I needed to crush my PR! It’s the perfect kickoff to get ready for the Austin Marathon. I can’t wait to be back next year, aiming for an even faster time!”

The Austin International Half would like to thank the dedicated volunteers, spectators, and all participants who contributed to the event’s success. Special recognition also goes to sponsors and partners, including Ascension Seton, BPN, EIGHT Beer, Fleet Feet Austin, H-E-B, SPIbelt, Austin Sports Commission, Texas Drain Specialists, FinisherPix, Austin Police Department, Department of Public Safety, CapMetro, and Travis County EMS. 

Registration for the 32nd edition of the Austin International Half is now open with Early Bird pricing of $89 until Thursday, January 30th. The event will be held on January 18, 2026, in Austin, Texas with two days of Health and Fitness Expo on January 16 and 17. Interested exhibitors can register HERE. 

About the Austin International Half: The Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, has been one of Austin’s premier running events since its establishment in 1995. With a reputation for its fast and picturesque course, the race attracts runners of all levels from around the world. Organized by High Five Events, the Austin International Half is a celebration of athleticism, determination, and the vibrant running community in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit DownhillToDowntown.com.

About High Five Events:  High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, Austin International Half, 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.