Runners looking for a fast winter marathon look no further than the vibrant Southwestern city of Austin, Texas.

The15th running of the Freescale Austin Marathon, to be held February 19, 2006, will feature a new, faster course which includes long, rolling downhills and flat sections. The course starts in the parking lot of Freescale Semiconductor, winds it way through the famed University of Texas campus and finishes at the Auditorium Shores in downtown Austin. Other landmarks along the course include the Texas Governor’s Mansion (President Bush’s former home), the Texas State Capitol and Town Lake.

In addition to the runner-friendly course, the weather in Austin in February typically provides for perfect conditions for a PR. Winter temps in Austin are 40s in the morning and 60s in the afternoon.

According to the marathon website, the race is currently the 15th largest marathon in the United States and annually attracts over 10,000 runners for the marathon and half-marathon.

The Oroweat Health & Fitness Expo will be held in conjunction with the marathon. It will take place on Friday and Saturday at the Palmer Events Center in Austin. The event will feature about 90 vendors and a few expert speakers. Registration packets will be picked up at the expo as well.

Other events include a kick-off party on Friday night, a pasta dinner on Saturday night and a post-race party on Sunday.

Registration for the marathon is $80 until January 29; $100 from January 30 to February 12; and $120 at the expo. The race will start at 7 a.m.