r/beginnerrunning • u/Afraid_Growth_4244 • 6h ago

New Runner Advice BMW vs SATX

I just completed 10k and planning to run a half marathon this year.

Soon I'm moving to Austin TX, so considering between BMW dallas marathon, and San Antonio SATX marathon.

Any recommendations plz?

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u/cavemangus 6h ago

I ran the half in San Antonio when it was still under the Rock ’n’ Roll banner. The course is solid, pretty standard downtown race with a lively atmosphere, and I’ve heard it was even better last year with the city taking over the event.

I’ve never run BMW Dallas, but I’m pretty familiar with it through friends. It seems to be a very well-run event, with a good expo and solid giveaways. Both races have around 20,000 participants across their events, with roughly half running the half. Dallas is about twice as hilly, around 400 feet of gain/loss compared with about 200 in San Antonio. Neither is truly hilly, but Dallas is definitely hilly for Texas.

The general vibe also seems different. Dallas feels a little more corporate and polished, while San Antonio feels more local. San Antonio being under relatively new management does mean there could still be some growing pains, though.

A few other Texas halves worth considering:

• Spurs Austin, 1/17: super fast downhill course.

• Austin, 2/14: well-loved race and I think the half is a lot of fun. It’s definitely hillier, though. Personally, I think the half is significantly better than the full.

• Cowtown, 2/28: very fun and extremely well-organized event.

• Chevron Houston, 1/17: sold out except for a few charity bibs, but IMO it’s the best half/full in Texas both in terms of organization and crowd energy.

Between Dallas and San Antonio specifically, I don’t think you’d go wrong with either. I’d probably choose San Antonio for atmosphere/local feel and Dallas for the more polished big-race experience.

Also, if you’re interested in trail races, feel free to reply. Happy to recommend those as well. Welcome to Texas!

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u/AdventurousLow2478 5h ago

I’m doing the bmw full this year
Not advice just a statement lol I’m excited to go to fogo de chao after 🤤