Tag Archive for: Austin

December Running Playlist Additions – 10 Must-Add Songs

Refresh your tunes with these December running playlist additions

We’ve got more tunes! 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 10 recent songs and put them in this convenient blog. You can listen to our playlist (100+ songs and counting), check out November’s additions, or refresh your music with these December running playlist additions. Remember, when training keep the volume low enough or don’t use headphones so you can listen to your surroundings.

Future People – Alabama Shakes
This spacey Alabama Shakes jam will have you floating on your run. When the energy in this song kicks up, pick up the pace. Slow down when it relaxes, repeats!

Congratulations – Post Malone feat. Quavo
Set this to play at the end so it reminds you of what you’ll hear once you cross the finish line. Collect your commemorative spinner finisher medal and head to the finish line festival!

Talk On The Street – Greta Van Fleet
Word on the street is everyone can’t get enough of 3M Half Marathon! Play this song at a point on your run when you start feeling sluggish and let the fast-pace rock & roll pick you up.

Where’d All the Time Go – Dr. Dog
Going for a chill run? Put this song on your chill run playlist. It’s always good to get out for a relaxing run, especially if you’re recovering from a hard workout. Pro tip: take your pup on your chill run!

Footprints – Sia
Not feeling your run today? Put this Sia song at the front of your playlist and let the positive vibe wash over you as you get into a groove.

Colors – Black Pumas
Next time you’re on a run, take a minute to soak in all amazing colors. Appreciate all that surrounds you as you listen to Austin’s own and recently Grammy-nominated Black Pumas.

Enter Sandman – Metallica
Some times you wake up, but you don’t really wake up. You’re in a fog, stumbling to get your shoes on. Click play, turn the volume up, and let Metallica wake you up!

I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide – ZZ Top
You know that feeling when you’re on a run and you’re feeling it? Everything feels right as you you knock off mile after mile. ZZ Top took that feeling and put it into song form! Pro tip: remember, you’re bad!

Moondance – Van Morrison
Another perfect song for a slower-paced recovery run. Remember, Van Morrison wants you to know that Sunday, January 19th, is a marvelous day for a half marathon!

Thunderstruck – AC/DC
THUNDER!

Add these December running playlist additions 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.

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Meet the 2020 Pacing Group for the 3M Half Marathon

Get to know your 2020 pacing group

You’re registered. You’re training. You have a goal time in mind. This is your first half marathon. You want to PR. You want to beat last year’s time. Whatever your race day goals, the Twenty-Six Two Marathon Club pacing group will guide you. Meet your 2020 3M Half Marathon pace team, learn where to find them on race day, and read a few dos and don’ts of running with your 2020 pacing group.

Find your 2020 pacing group:

Look for the Twenty-Six Two pacing group in the starting corrals holding pace signs. Those signs correspond to the paces designated by signs in the corrals. There will be two pacers per each pace group (finish times of 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:55, 2:00, 2:05, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:25, 2:30). The pacers will also wear matching Under Armour running outfits that say “PACER” or otherwise designated them as official 3M Half Marathon pacers.

1:30

(6:52 min./mile)

 Matt Fletcher John Golden

1:35

(7:15 min./mile)

 Joe Terracina Leland Mangrum

1:40

(7:37 min./mile)

 Jonathan Garner Jose Reyes

1:45

(8:00 min./mile)

 Charlie Werth Talaya Frazier

1:50

(8:23 min./mile)

 

 Karim Elmarabet Eliot Franklin

1:55

(8:46 min./mile)

 Jennifer Goetz Laura Hitt

2:00

(9:09 min.mile)

 Eric Johnson Sam Gammage

2:05

(9:32 min./mile)

 Steve Pina Summer Smith

2:10

(9:55 min./mile)

 Claire McGuiness Kelvin Lam

2:15

(10:17 min./mile)

 Rocio Villalobos Jillian Baaklini

2:20

(10:40 min./mile)

 Ted Kvapil Son Ha

2:25

(11:03 min./mile)

 Jessica Mangrum Kelly Peck

2:30

(11:26 min.mile)

 Devangi Parikh Juanita Bowling

Race day dos: 

  • DO ask questions before the start about your pacing group’s race plan. Most will run slightly slower at first, and then pick up speed in the middle miles of the race. However, each pace group is slightly different, so make sure to ask any questions before the race begins.
  • DO drink at water stations along the way if you normally take water or sports drink during the race. The pacing group will slow down slightly to allow runners to catch up after water stops.
  • DO ask questions or introduce yourself during the race if you are inclined. The pacers are all accustomed to racing at paces faster than what they are pacing, so they should be able to answer your questions.

    pace team

    Summer (4256) and Steve (4530) will lead the 2:05 group for 2020. Claire (5241) will lead the 2:10 group for 2020.

  • DO ask what your splits should be at each mile marker, and compare the pacers’ times with your watch or GPS device. You want to make sure that you are “in sync” with the pacers’ official times.
  • DO relax and let the pacing group guide you! They are trained to finish at (or slightly faster than) their designated finish times.

Race day don’ts:

  • DON’T struggle to stay right next to or behind the pacers, especially at the beginning when it is crowded. As long as you are near them along the way, you will have plenty of time to stick with them after a few miles.
  • DON’T try to start out with a pacing group that is significantly faster than you are accustomed to running. Find the pace group that is right for you, and enjoy the race as the pacers lead you to the finish line.
  • DON’T forget that the pacing group is targeting a finish that corresponds to their own chip time, not the official “gun time.” If your pace group crosses the start line several minutes after the race begins, the pacers will be following their own chip time, not the “clock” time at the finish. Make sure to ask along the way what the pacers’ time is, and compare it to your own time. If you are unsure whether you are “ahead of” or “behind” the pacers’ time, ask them! They will answer your questions.

Twenty-Six Two Marathon Club (TST) is an Austin-based nonprofit group that provides low-cost training to men and women marathoners and half marathoners throughout the year. Since 2005, TST has trained hundreds of runners for races in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New York, San Antonio, and many other cities (and countries). TST’s Pace Team provides pacers for races year-round and is comprised of club members who have run multiple marathons and half-marathons.

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.

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.