The Austin Marathon Foundation announced recently that the
Freescale Austin Marathon (February 19, 2006) is implementing a
unique and innovative support program for athletes trying to
qualify for the 2008 Olympic Trials. Offering perfect running weather, a supportive race staff and a
new, faster course, the Freescale Austin Marathon offers a great
opportunity for Olympic Trials hopefuls to attain the qualifying
standard early in the qualifying period. The dreams for future
Olympians start in Austin.
Austin is FAST
The Austin Marathon course was always fast but now it's even
faster! For the 2006 race, the course has been modified to make
it even faster. The end result is a rolling net downhill course
that includes gentle down hills and long flat sections as well
as a few gradual inclines to provide variety - the perfect
situation to help athletes run fast.
Austin is Cool
Austin, Texas is one of the best winter running sites in the
US. Offering an average temperature of 55 degrees, Austin's mid-
February weather is ideal for fast marathoning.
Elite Athlete Support System
The Elite Athlete Program Staff understands what elite
athletes need to succeed and are committed to helping athletes
achieve their dreams.
How the Program Works
Any US athlete who has run under 2:30:00 (men) or 3:00:00
(women) in the last three years qualifies for the program. Proof
of performance is required.
What A Qualified Athlete Receives:
1) Complimentary Entry into the 2006 Freescale Austin
Marathon
2) Help in identifying support for travel and lodging.
[Athletes who have run under 2:20:00 (men), 2:40:00 (women),
2:25:00 (masters men) and 2:50:00 (masters women) are eligible
for support through the traditional Freescale Austin Marathon
elite athlete program.]
3) Special program events to include hospitality, technical
race meeting and other events to support athletes in their quest
4) Special transport to the starting line as well as
exclusive warm-up area with private restrooms
5) Priority starting corral allowing the warm-up and
starting position necessary for a great race
6) Pacing- There will be four pace groups taking athletes
through at least the half-marathon. There will be a pace group
for each of the standards (2:20:00, 2:22:00, 2:39:00, 2:47:00)
7) A FAST USATF-certified point-to-point course and ideal
weather!
The Freescale Austin Marathon is committed to doing everything
possible to help US athletes attain the Olympic Trials standard.
For more information about the Freescale Austin Marathon Olympic
Development Program, contact Greg McMillan via email at greg@freescaleaust
inmarathon.com or call (877) 478-4265.
For more information about the Freescale Austin Marathon, go
to www.freescaleasutinmarathon.com.
