Statesman Capitol 10,000 Warm-up: Q&A

For more than four decades, the Statesman Cap10K has been a much loved annual event in Austin. What began in 1978 with 3,400 participants has grown into the largest 10K race in Texas and the sixth largest in the nation. The Cap10K is among The BibRave 100: A Definitive List of the Best Races In America and was voted “Best Road Race” in AFM’s own 2018 annual “Best of” awards.

The Cap10K, presented by Baylor Scott and White Health, will clock its 42nd start on Sunday, April 7. This year, the race beneficiary is the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM). Runners and walkers of all fitness levels are encouraged to register at cap10K.com.

AFM: We love that the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) is this year’s race beneficiary. Tell us about how the partnership will impact this year’s race.

JS: Music plays an essential part in Austin’s cultural landscape. The annual Cap10K simply would not be the same without the local musicians to kick off the race, keep runners going with live bands along the course and help them cool down with music at the Finish Line Festival on Vic Mathias shores. We’re grateful to live and work among these talented artists, and are honored to help support their health and wellness by supporting HAAM.

AFM: What are you most excited about for this 
year’s race?

JS: Participant feedback is absolutely essential to the evolution of the Cap10K. After each race, our team sends out a survey to learn what we did well and what we can improve upon or add. As a result, for example, in 2018 we introduced finisher medals for the first time in the race’s history. We’re bringing them back in 2019, with a music design that will tie in with our race beneficiary. We’ve also worked on upgrading the quality of the race shirts, so that they’re softer and a better fit.

AFM: Sanya Richards-Ross is one of AFM’s favorite athletes (see our January cover story). What inspired you to choose her as your 2019 race ambassador?  

JS: It is a distinct honor to have Sanya Richards-Ross as our 42nd race ambassador. She’s accomplished so much on the track representing the University of Texas and the US, as well as off the track improving youth’s health, fitness and confidence, which align with the Cap10K’s mission. She’s a perfect fit, and we’re absolutely thrilled.

AFM: Any insider tips for race day? Parking secrets or tricky hills to avoid? Give us the scoop.

JS: Our website, cap10K.com, is packed with participant information. We know that for any race with thousands of runners, parking can be a challenge. As always, we encourage our registrants to use public transportation. Those who drive are advised to visit cap10K.com, go to the “Race Weekend” tab and drop down to “Parking.” For a course description, map and dynamic virtual course tour, go to the “Participants” tab and drop down to “Course Info & Amenities.” We also have a pro tip for packet pickup during race weekend, April 5-6, at the Cap10K Health & Fitness Expo at Palmer Events Center. It’s very busy during the first hour on Friday and Saturday morning. Come later for shorter lines and a great expo experience. Also, a reminder that packet pickup is not available on race day.

We are really looking forward to another great race in 2019. We hope that you join us!   

Statesman Capitol 10,000

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019; 8 a.m.
Where: Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge
Cost: $45. The registration fee will increase to $50 on March 1.
More information: cap10K.com