For over two decades people from all over the globe find their way to Texas’ capital for the Livestrong Marathon and Half Marathon. The annual event takes place in February on Presidents day weekend. The Paramount Theater has a 5K run during the marathon. The course starts and ends in the Heart of the city, but you can find runners all over town, from Ben White to Foster Lane and everywhere in between. The marathon has grown from a few hundred participants to over 18 thousand. Despite the enormous influx of patrons in the downtown area during the event, race officials have made grand strides to keep the amount of waste close to zero. Downtown trash cans are closed off, encouraging the use of temporary compost and recyclable bins. Runners are also give the option to obtain paperless race packets. On race day the streets of downtown are filled with runners, spectators, and accomplishments.
Apart from the cheers and proud moments of crossing the finish line, the marathon was created to promote awareness of all types of cancer. The goal is to motivate individuals to live their lives and to take control of it. Many runners themselves are cancer survivors or are running in memory of a loved one. The event's 26 miles for 26 charities give non-profit agencies the ability to raise awareness as well as funds for their cause.