Tag Archive for: Austin Half Marathon

November Running Playlist Additions – 10 Must-Add Songs

Refresh your tunes with these November running playlist additions

Often times one song (or several!) can power you through a tough time during an intense workout or a long run. That’s why we’ve created this #WeLiketheSoundofThat playlist! We share every song on Twitter. Follow us so you know what’s next. We’ve taken the most recent 10 songs and put them in this convenient blog. You can listen to our playlist (100+ songs and counting) or refresh your music with these November running playlist additions. Remember, keep the volume low enough or don’t use headphones so you can listen to your surroundings and stay safe while training.

I Like Dirt – Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Chili Peppers have been at it for years. This isn’t one of their major radio hits, but this jam will have you quickly pick up the pace. Pro tip: best listened to if going on a trail run!

Busted and Blue – Black Pistol Fire
Black Pistol Fire call Austin home, but that’s not the only reason they made this list. They have several albums and this song is just the tip of the iceberg for running playlist-approved songs.

Shake It Out – Manchester Orchestra
Not feeling motivated for your run? Sometimes a song just tells you what to do. Pro tip: make this the first song of your playlist and get ready to shake it out!

Good Times Roll – The Cars
You thought this list would be all newer songs? Don’t limit your playlist. The tempo for this song is slower than the others. Pro tip: set this song for your recovery run or cool down and let the good times roll.

Stayin’ Alive – Bee Gees
We’ve often heard runners claim to use this song as their running mantra. Of course it’s on this November running playlist update! Pro tip: set this song towards the end of your long run.

Remember to Breathe – Sturgill Simpson
We’ve got some rock and some classics so of course we added some alt-country. We doubt you’ll forget to breathe, but play this song when you need to slow down the pace and catch your breath.

Southern Point – Grizzly Bear
Don’t let Southern Point’s slow start fool you. It picks up around the 1:05 mark. If you hear this song pop up, use those 65 seconds to recover before you pick up the pace again.

Currency – The Black Angels
Another Austin group that rocks out first and asks questions later. The song is slow and methodical, making it the perfect warm-up or cool-down song.

Keep the Wolves Away – Uncle Lucius
You hear the wolves howling? Those are the voices in your head telling you to cut your run short. They want you to end your workout early. Pro tip: put this song towards the end of your running playlist when you need a reminder to keep the wolves away.

Takin’ Care of Business – Bachman-Turner Overdrive
Put this song anywhere in your playlist and let it be a reminder of what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. You’ve, set goals, you’re working towards them, and you’re takin’ care of business!

Utilize this November running playlist update before you take off for your next run. These 10 songs can pump you up, allow you to catch your breath, or help you focus on the warm-up/cool-down. However you incorporate music, just make sure you can still hear your surroundings. It’s important to know what’s going on around you! Is there something you do that we didn’t list? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Daylight Saving Time Ends – 5 Running Tips to Keep You Safe

Running tips that can keep you safe now that daylight saving time has ended

If your clocks didn’t do it automatically, then you just made every clock you own “fall back.” Whether you like it or not, daylight saving time has ended and the sun will set much, much earlier than normal. In general, this means colder temperatures and less sunlight. But like they say, the training must go on! If you’re training for 3M Half Marathon or the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, these 5 running tips will keep you safe now that daylight saving time has ended. If you’re out driving, watch out for runners and cyclists!

Wear reflective clothing/lights

Reflective clothing is a must! In addition to reflective clothing, bright colors work too. Make sure you’re seen by everyone, from drivers to cyclists. Take your safety a step further and add lights. They’re lightweight and can ensure you’re seen from farther away. Depending on your preference, lights can be worn on your shoes, legs, arms, or your head.

Dress in layers

If it’s chilly outside, dressing in layers can help your body maintain its core temperature. This is critical in ensuring you don’t get sick. It also allows you to take off layers if you get too warm and put them back on when you cool down post-run. When dressing in layers, make sure the layer closest to your body has sweat-wicking material.

Adjust your schedule

Whether you like the time change or not, you should adjust your schedule now that daylight saving time has ended. If you can, run when the sun is out, coming up, or going down. This increases the chances that you’re seen by others. You also avoid running during the coldest parts of the day, especially early morning. You should always check the weather before you head out for a run.

Run defensively

Running defensively doesn’t mean you have to run slower. This could mean wearing reflective clothing/lights (like above), avoiding busy roads, or running in areas with high foot traffic. If you do run near busy roads, make sure you run against traffic. Expect the unexpected and briefly slowing down at intersections, parking garage entrances, and apartment/business driveways. As the amount of daylight diminishes, you need to protect yourself from others who aren’t paying attention or might want to cause harm to others.

Tell someone your workout

Before you take off, tell someone (loved one, co-worker, or roommate) your planned route, mileage, and when they can expect you back. Or ask them to run with you! If they don’t, knowing your route and mileage provides an idea of when they can expect you back and where to check should you not come back on time. Turn on the setting that allows someone to know your location, most smartphones have this.

Take your safety into your own hands with our tips. By being proactive, you increase the chances of completing a successful training run. With drivers paying less and less attention, runners need their safety even more seriously. We want you to make it to the 3M Half Marathon start line on January 19th fully healthy! Is there something you do that we didn’t list? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

3M Half Marathon Extends Partnership with SPIbelt

SPIbelt named Official Race Belt of the 3M Half Marathon

High Five Events names SPIbelt as the Official Race Belt of the 2020 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour. SPIbelt will partner with 3M Half Marathon for community activations, product giveaways, and race-week engagement. The 3M Half Marathon will take place on January 19, 2020.

“We are excited to continue supporting the Austin running community,” said Kim Overton, SPIbelt founder and owner. “It’s always incredible to see so many of our running belts on the streets of Austin come race day. We wish all of the athletes the best of luck and we will be cheering you on in January!”

Another Austin original

SPIbelt, the leader in fitness accessories and creator of the original small personal item belt, was founded in 2006 by Austinite Kim Overton. Its bounce-free products are well-known within the endurance sports industry for their ability to conveniently carry keys, bottles, gels, and your phone while on the go. SPIbelt and 3M Half Marathon will team up at community events to support the running community. Visit the SPIbelt booth at the 3M Half Marathon expo to see their entire range of accessories, including the new 2020 color palette and the all-new Dual Pocket PRO – equipped with two larger pocket sizes for even more storage.

“SPIbelt’s mission and product line have allowed countless individuals to do what 3M Half Marathon participants do every year – chase their personal best,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “We’re excited to partner with this Austin company and continue to support the endurance community as they chase their goals.”

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country. It will celebrate its 26th year running in 2020. 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.

Get to Know Austin via the 3M Half Marathon Course – Part II

Explore Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin

Austin is well-known for its culinary hot spots and picture-worthy locations. This is evident along Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course. We highlight some of our favorite on-course spots, including the Texas State Capitol! Whether you’re an Austinite or in town for the 3M Half Marathon, get to know Austin with our list of seven on-course locations. Don’t miss out on Miles 1-6. Enjoy!

Stacks on stacks on stacks. Credit – Upper Crust Bakery Facebook.

Upper Crust Bakery (Mile 9)

Complete 3M Half Marathon, reward yourself with dessert! Makes sense, right?! Upper Crust Bakery (4508 Burnet Rd.) serves lunch too, but let’s be real, you’re coming here to satisfy your sweet tooth. Everything they make, cakes, pies, pastries, etc., is made from scratch. They’ve been in Austin for 28 years, so this isn’t some fly-by-night operation. Stop by and reward yourself!

Stinson’s Bistro (Mile 9)

Their menu is simple, but delicious. What they do make, they knock out of the park. Stinson’s Bistro (4416 Burnet Rd.) is perfect for date night, an outing with friends, or brunch after you complete 3M Half Marathon! Additionally, they serve beverages from coffee to cocktails. So if you’re watching friends or family, stop by for a coffee and a taco before heading to the finish line. Then make plans to come back and celebrate!

Hearty breakfast tacos from Stinson's Bistro. Get to know Austin when you visit places, like Stinson's Bistro, along the 3M Half Marathon course.

Hearty breakfast tacos from Stinson’s Bistro. Credit – Stinson’s Bistro Facebook.

Hyde Park Neighborhood (Miles 10-11)

Considered by many to be Austin’s first suburb, Hyde Park can trace its origins back to 1891. When you’re running through Hyde Park, soak in the massive trees and the beautiful architecture. If it’s not race day, take a leisurely stroll and check everything out at your own pace. If you’re out walking around make sure you check out the Elisabet Ney Museum, Quack’s 43rd St. Bakery, and Antonelli’s Cheese Shop.

Hancock Golf Course (Mile 11.5)

Stretch out your legs before your half marathon and play a round of nine holes at the Hancock Golf Course. The course (811 E. 41st St.) was founded in 1899 by former Austin mayor Lewis Hancock. It’s one of the oldest golf courses in Texas.

Runner passes through UT campus during the 2019 3M Half Marathon. Get to know Austin when you visit the places in our blog, like The University of Texas.

Runner passes through UT campus during the 2019 3M Half Marathon.

University of Texas (Mile 12)

One mile to go! The sights of the University of Texas will definitely help push you to the finish line. When you enter campus you’ll notice the street signs turn from green to burnt orange. Now you know the eyes of Texas are upon you! Before you pass the majestic Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (home to the Texas Longhorns football team), enjoy the great view of the UT Tower to your right. To your left is the Mike Myers Stadium and Soccer Field where Austin Marathon Celebrity Ambassador Leo Manzano won many awards and set many records!

Enjoy the chicken fried steak from Scholz Garten. Get to know Austin when you visit places, like Scholz Garten, along the 3M Half Marathon course.

You’ll enjoy the chicken fried steak from Scholz Garten. Credit – Scholz Garten Facebook.

Scholz Garten (Mile 13)

Even though they open at noon on Sunday, Scholz Garten (1607 San Jacinto Blvd.) is a great spot for a post-3M Half Marathon gathering. The German food is delicious, there’s plenty of seating (including outdoors), and the atmosphere is always lively! Scholz Garten was established in 1886 and houses one of the nation’s oldest bowling centers. Pro tip: we recommend everything on the menu!

Texas State Capitol (finish line)

The beautiful Texas State Capitol (1100 Congress Ave.) has a rich history and serves as a backdrop for many post-3M Half Marathon photos! Take a Capitol tour and learn about the building’s life and its connection to Texas history. Not a fan of tours? A leisurely stroll on Capitol grounds will get the job done. Don’t forget your camera! Fun fact: the Texas Capitol is taller than the US Capitol!

Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course features flavorful options and a place to enjoy a relaxing night out. Add these hot spots to your must-visit list and get to know Austin even more. Check out hot spots along Miles 1-6 and complete the course. Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know what it is on Facebook or Twitter.

3M Half Marathon Continues Partnership with Nuun

3M Half Marathon Continues Partnership with Nuun

Since 2017, Nuun has hydrated thousands of 3M Half Marathoners

AUSTIN, Texas, November 15, 2022 — High Five Events, one of the largest privately owned event production companies in the United States, welcomes back Nuun as the Official Hydration of the 3M Half Marathon. The agreement means Nuun will hydrate runners chasing their half marathon Personal Records (PR) through 2023. The 29th annual 3M Half Marathon takes place on January 22, 2023.

“The Nuun team is thrilled to be back on the streets of Austin hydrating one of the most fun and fastest half marathons in the country,” said Kevin Rutherford, Nuun President and CEO. “Together with High Five Events we are realizing our mission of inspiring more movement and we look forward to cheering on the runners again at the 3M Half Marathon.”

Nuun will provide Nuun Endurance to all participants. Endurance will be available at all aid stations and the start and finish lines. Endurance is a Non-GMO and Informed-Sport verified sports hydration drink mix designed to be used during high intensity and/or prolonged endurance exercise. It contains a precise mix of multiple carbohydrate sources and highly bioavailable electrolytes to help deliver fluids as well as minimize gastric distress during endurance exercise. In addition, Nuun and the 3M Half Marathon will increase community engagement and product awareness by offering free samples and product discounts, sampling Nuun at running stores, and supporting various demo runs around Austin.

“Nuun continues to hydrate thousands of PRs at 3M Half Marathon and we’re glad they’ll fuel thousands more,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “We will continue to expand our community engagement opportunities and educate athletes on the benefits of an effective hydration plan with Nuun.”

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country. Runners 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.

About High Five Events: Beginning with the launch of a single triathlon in 2003, High Five Events has grown to become one of the largest privately owned event production companies in the United States. High Five Events is a community-centric company based in Austin, Texas. Their staff has more than 100 years’ of combined experience organizing large events across different venue types in a variety of locations.  The company has landed on Inc. 500 fastest growing companies in both 2019 and 2020.  

About Nuun & Company: Nuun is a hydration company with a mission to inspire more movement. Nuun electrolyte tablets and powders provide functional hydration optimized for exercise, daily health, travel, immune support, and rest. Clean and Non-GMO Project verified ingredients, a refreshing taste and low sugar make Nuun a favorite amongst active consumers. Nuun tablets are convenient to carry and add to water, and they are better for the environment than traditional bottled sports drinks. Consumers adding Nuun tablets to their reusable water bottles helped save the shipping of over 100 million pounds of water in 2018 alone. 15-year-old Nuun is the #1 selling sports drink supplement brand in running, cycling, outdoor and natural foods stores. The Seattle-based company has been recognized by Outside Magazine, who ranked Nuun on the 2017 and 2018 ‘Best Places to Work’ lists. To learn more, visit www.nuunlife.com  or follow them at @nuunhydration and #nuunlife.