Run the Alamo Marathon & 13.1 Half
San Antonio, TX
- Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
Welcome to The ALAMO MARATHON, THE ONLY Home Grown, Down Home, Spring Time Marathon in San Antonio. Cross the famous Travis’ line in the sand, as you Fight to the Finish while running literally thru history. This BQ certified course will not only inspire you but lift your spirits with … MORE
Local Historical Weather (Feb 28):
| 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |
| H (°F) | 86 | 78 | 70 | 84 | 68 |
| L (°F) | 61 | 47 | 49 | 52 | 32 |
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San Antonio is great
It was nice early, but it got really hot later in the AM. Beware of the temps. Also, you spend a lot of miles on concrete, which is not my … MORE
It was nice early, but it got really hot later in the AM. Beware of the temps. Also, you spend a lot of miles on concrete, which is not my favorite. The scenery is good, and interesting when you run along the river and go through mission sites.
Nice course - lot of river views
I ran this one the day after finishing The Woodlands Marathon about 3 weeks after finishing the Outlaw 100 Marathon Because of this, my legs weren't exactly fresh. I decided … MORE
I ran this one the day after finishing The Woodlands Marathon about 3 weeks after finishing the Outlaw 100 Marathon Because of this, my legs weren’t exactly fresh.
I decided that since I was in Texas and at the Alamo, I would run in my cowboy hat (only time I did that before was at Las Annual Vol State 500k). In addition, I had heard of a runner who set a blistering marathon time wearing jeans so I decided to “Texas-up” and wear my hat, jeans, a denim shirt, an ultramarathon finisher buckle, and my Brooks Texas flag shoes.
The bib pick-up was so easy – almost nothing. I was in and out in a few minutes. Arrived at the race course and found parking across the street ($16 I believe) so quick walk to the start. The start is in front of a convention center – nice but there are water-features out front (kind of like streams) and I witnessed three people miss their steps and stepped down into the water before the race (shin high….but still wet shoes, so be careful).
Race start was a little disorganized in my opinion – my watch showed it was starting a few minutes late. But more importantly, the runners were kind of crammed into a small starting area (there were a LOT of half-marathoners there) so starting was a walk for a short time. But then we were off.
The first part of the run meanders through the Alamo area of San Antonio, past the River Walk, through a couple neighborhoods with absolutely beautiful historic homes, and past the front of The Alamo itself.
After running through another park-like area, runners dropped down to the San Antonio River. Most of the race would take runners along the river. It isn’t exactly flat – lots of rollers, but overall not a bad course.
I did notice that most of the water tables, although staffed with great volunteers, were simply not prepared as there was usually no full water cups and runners had to stop and wait for volunteers to fill and hand of the cups. Despite this, I was feeling great for most of the run in my Texas running garb. However, by about mile 19 or 20, that hat was getting a bit warm on my head. Unfortunately, it was around that point that I reached an aid station and when I went to get water I found out it had run out of cups. My opinion is that RDs need to make sure they have plenty of water and associated cups on a course…especially in Texas.
Enough complaining, I continued on jogging and speed walking. The day before I had run sub-5 in the marathon so today I was only hoping a sub-6 hour. I got it – barely, but despite my tired legs and outfit, I finished.
The race medal is very nice (although I really liked the magnetic gecko in the inside of the boot medal for the half-marathon). Also, marathon finishers got a super nice finishers’ jacket.
Overall, I liked the event. If the start line could be improved a bit (less congested) and the water at aid-stations great improved, I think this could be a stellar event. I am already tempted to return next year and see what kind of finishing time I could achieve in my “regular” running outfit (shorts and light running shirt).
Best Medal Ever
The race is a nice course through San Antonio. The course uses some of the city trails as well as road closures - overall a good course. The expo is … MORE
The race is a nice course through San Antonio. The course uses some of the city trails as well as road closures – overall a good course. The expo is basically a table in a small building with quick packet pickup – don’t expect to be able to purchase gels or other race merch. The reason you run this race is for the medal. It’s hands down one of the coolest and most creative I have in my collection.
Meant to be a Half Marathon
After 90 completed marathons, the second 13.1 miles is just filler along the river. Markers were invisible at the end of the race and I stopped to look around for … MORE
After 90 completed marathons, the second 13.1 miles is just filler along the river. Markers were invisible at the end of the race and I stopped to look around for other participants to find my way back.
Great Course
Pre-race communication could have been much better. The expo was really just a packet pickup - no vendors. Due to some construction in the start line area the start was … MORE
Pre-race communication could have been much better. The expo was really just a packet pickup – no vendors. Due to some construction in the start line area the start was kind of a mess. I loved the course, went through some pretty neighborhoods and in some parks. Weather was 65 and 100% humidity at the start and coming from a Northern state that was pretty hard to deal with. Medals are awesome!!! Post race party was nice with a good selection of snacks and the breakfast burrito was great!
Ran the Alamo but, where was the Alamo?!
Either I ran past the Alamo and didn't see it, or we didn't run by it. I think the latter. After the race I walked to the Alamo and there … MORE
Either I ran past the Alamo and didn’t see it, or we didn’t run by it. I think the latter. After the race I walked to the Alamo and there was construction in front of the building so I think we didn’t actually run by it. Understandable and I suppose the road works will be done by 2024.
This race is worth it for San Antonio (and the Riverwalk) and for the Alamo itself. Otherwise this would not be a race I’d have wanted to do. With that said, production was great, the post-race food was awesome, volunteers, aid stations, port-a-potty location, everything… the production was very good. Most races this size have good production but this was better than most others I’ve done.
The course itself was okay. The first several miles were through downtown areas that were really a joy to run through. There were a few middle miles that were on busier roads and the scenery was nothing special. The last few miles were nice. I’d probably do this race again if I lived within a few hours drive but I wouldn’t fly out to TX from TN to do it again, as I did this time. It was probably just below a bucket list race for me and I’m glad I did it, but in retrospect it probably didn’t deserve the “near bucket list” status.
Beautiful Town to Run
This race went really well for me. It was my 2nd fastest half marathon (only 2nd to my Revel downhill half), but only over it by 5 min. The course … MORE
This race went really well for me. It was my 2nd fastest half marathon (only 2nd to my Revel downhill half), but only over it by 5 min. The course is flat with what I call inclines and declines (not hills by any means). We started downtown near the Alamo (due to a lot of construction we were not routed through the Alamo on this run), this was a lot of cobblestone to run over. I was cautious to watch my footing. We proceeded in turns and loops where you could see other runners, ran through a nice neighborhood with some beautiful homes, regular paved roads, and on to the River Walk path which has beautiful scenery. This is where the inclines came in to play. There was plenty of space to run without weaving around everyone. Water and Gatorade where really the only support along the route, but they were about every mile after the first 1.5 miles. Crowd support did not exist except for the families cheering on their family and friends running. There was a nice bunch at the park we ran by where there were drummers, mariachi band, pretzels, beer, and oranges. The finish was a nice long corral where cheering was great. After party had beer from local breweries, good food consisting of potatoes, pulled chicken, beans, tortillas, and a brownie, chocolate milk, and water. The expo….well there wasn’t one. It was just bib pickup and the shirt which was a bit of a disappointment to me this year. Very plain and not the best material. The medal was large and a saddle this year — very nice!
We doubled this run with the 5K donut dash which was the day before. We were to get a 3rd medal for running both (on the website when we signed up), but amazingly it disappeared and people in charge of the race gave us three different answers when we asked about it….1.) no they weren’t giving them out this year, 2.) they didn’t come in and we will mail them, 3.) I don’t know. Really disappointed with this as we wouldn’t have signed up for both if there was not a 3rd medal. We will be writing to someone about it.
All in all I enjoyed the race. We rented an airbnb right by the River Walk and spent Wed – Mon as a family runcation. (Be sure to check out Fredericksburg if you attend – cute town and lots of wineries and delicious German food).
Fun town, good event, nice bling.
I like S.A., and the downtown/riverwalk area is really nice. I did the Half in 2017. Now my daughter goes to college there, so I came back again to run … MORE
I like S.A., and the downtown/riverwalk area is really nice. I did the Half in 2017. Now my daughter goes to college there, so I came back again to run the Full. Course is good and the finishers medals are always nice. Age group awards look real nice too. Expo is in a good location. Post race food was real good! No issues or complaints. A good event.
Great race
Love the huge, heavy, detail medal. Well organized race, start and finish at the same location across the street from host hotel. Other hotels are in walking distance. Adequate water … MORE
Love the huge, heavy, detail medal. Well organized race, start and finish at the same location across the street from host hotel. Other hotels are in walking distance. Adequate water stations, relatively flat course, A+ post-race food and refreshment. This race is known for its unique medal, it did not disappoint. highly recommend.
Long and windy full marathon
The race day for 2022 was a fairly hot and humid. (Luckily a little overcast) The route itself has a lot of double backing and some areas where you take … MORE
The race day for 2022 was a fairly hot and humid. (Luckily a little overcast) The route itself has a lot of double backing and some areas where you take a detour on the path because it is the marathon distance.
It is a fairly flat course with mainly paved roads and some gravel areas. To be honest, the southern area of the river isn’t that scenic since it is just a park, and some areas have stray bikers or walkers who happened to stumble upon the marathon or half marathon route (which is a little a nuisance). Not a lot of people do this race and a lot of people walk the last mile or so of the picturesque San Antonio riverwalk ending. Overall a decent race but I didn’t perform my best.
Remember the Alamo
This race was a deferral from 2021 for me. packet pickup was quick but parking was a process in the downtown San Antonio area to get there. Which is a … MORE
This race was a deferral from 2021 for me. packet pickup was quick but parking was a process in the downtown San Antonio area to get there. Which is a plus if you traveled in and wanted something to do. The swag included a cotton t-shirt and small bag. and included a finisher 1/4 zip at the finish. The finisher medal was large and neat….The day of the race was warmer than usual for the time of the year in San Antonio making a warm and humid day and a more difficult race…. believe it or not the next day would of been perfect weather…It seemed that there was plenty of porta potties at the start…Additionally the race was by the Hempshire park that had a lot of cool stuff for my kids to play on…The course was mostly flat and had more than enough aid stations…the negative part of the course that caused some confusion was the loops in the middle of the course ad well as some lack of markings…I had to yell at someone to turn around at one point and a few times myself and others were briefly confused on where to proceed to…The course was a little scenic while on the Riverwalk but lacked large crowds…..the post race included some good food and beer options…this included fresh fruit, rice and beans, and burritos…also some local beer that tasted good after a hot run…..I would recommend this race especially since San Antonio is a cool town to tour…
Sunday stroll along the Riverwalk
First time in Texas outside of the airports. I was concerned about the heat since it had been in the 90's leading up to the race, but it was only … MORE
First time in Texas outside of the airports. I was concerned about the heat since it had been in the 90’s leading up to the race, but it was only in the mid 50’s at the start of the race.
Packet pickup was quick and easy. Race shirt is good quality and came with a small duffle bag. Parking for the pickup was a little confusing, but there was a garage a short walk away.
I parked in the same garage on race morning. They did a health check before the race by taking everyone’s temperature and giving them a green sticker to place on their bib. There were several port-a-johns, but the area could have used some lighting.
The 1st mile was on a somewhat uneven road and some brick road. After that, everything was paved and a little easier for running. The crowd support was not too bad considering it is still during Covid. There were pockets of people and then long stretches without anyone. Aid stations appeared to be plentiful and well stocked with Gatorade and water. I carry my own water, so I didn’t use any.
The course was a bit of a maze and confusing, but it wasn’t a problem because the course was marked well and the volunteers were helpful. The course was mostly scenic with a part along the river. It was an enjoyable course most of the time. There were some small hills early, but it seemed most of the gain was the last 4 miles. I started to struggle a bit after mile 9. The finish line had a nice little bag of post race snacks. The medal was the star of the show. It was certainly unlike any others I’ve had. I’m not sure if it was due to the 10th anniversary or if they’re always that nice. Overall, it was an enjoyable event.
Must do Texas run
I did this run when I only had 1 night in San Antonio. This race was perfect for that, you get to see all the sites & attractions of San … MORE
I did this run when I only had 1 night in San Antonio. This race was perfect for that, you get to see all the sites & attractions of San Antonio on the run! You run past The Alamo, tons of historic places & even get to run alone the famous river walk. The medals are huge and fun. The race was pretty well put together, also very flat course.
Great medal, nice course!
Really liked the medal, t-shirt, and bag they handed out. Race goes right by the Alamo and runs along the Mission trail for a portion of the run, which is … MORE
Really liked the medal, t-shirt, and bag they handed out. Race goes right by the Alamo and runs along the Mission trail for a portion of the run, which is really nice. Finish line food looked good, although I didn’t feel up to eating it at the finish. Handed out canned Alamo beer, which was perfect because I could bring it back to the hotel for later in the day! Weather was perfect for running! The expo was tiny, so don’t expect much there. Water stations were decent. At the start of the race it was dark so I missed the porta potties and waited in line forever to use the park restrooms (must have been a common oversight). All in all a great race though and a perfect place for a runcation if you are into history, there is a ton of great things to do in San Antonio while you are there!
Flat, fast, warm
Flat/easy course, a little warm/humid for a northwesterner. It’s not as scenic as some of the courses I have run, but it was all new scenery to me, so that … MORE
Flat/easy course, a little warm/humid for a northwesterner. It’s not as scenic as some of the courses I have run, but it was all new scenery to me, so that made it enjoyable. There were two port-a-potties set up at each station (so it was about a 15min wait to potty on the course). I did not stick around for the after party bc we were headed for Sea World right after, but it looked like a great time. Loved the medal!
Good times in San Antonio
Nice medium sized race in beautiful SA, Texas. Packet pickup was easy, and in a nice shopping area of town. I really liked the bag with shoulder strap given out … MORE
Nice medium sized race in beautiful SA, Texas. Packet pickup was easy, and in a nice shopping area of town. I really liked the bag with shoulder strap given out at expo. Race production was good, course was fine, nice medal! After race food was excellent. Found free street parking for expo and race. Overall a very good event!
Great swag, course needs work.
CONS*The course was not well laid out, it went from downtown out to breckenridge park along a very narrow trail with runners going on both sides as you turned around … MORE
CONS*The course was not well laid out, it went from downtown out to breckenridge park along a very narrow trail with runners going on both sides as you turned around inside the park. Hard to pass people and crowded. One mile or so led to a trail of caliche looking rocks that has been attempted to be held down by asphalt at one time. I was just praying I didn’t fall this path led to cobbled bricks some which were hollowed out like tiny pot holes! Again the better bricks were only on a narrow strip. The last two miles went back on to the river walk again very narrow hard to pass and lead back to the Alamo which was the start and finish. I know SA pretty well and there are lots of scenic pretty parts to run sadly we didn’t go by any of them.:(
* food at the end was average.long lines
*expo/ packet pick up was unorganized
pros
* bad ass medal! nice tech shirt and a very nice canvas goodie bag, custom bibs cut out like the Alamo
* free beer at the finish 🙂
* signage was good along the course and intersections well secured by SA PD.
That goodness SA had a cold front it saved me race started at a nice 45 degrees .
I would probably not run this again unless the course was redone.
But excited for my time. 🙂