3,500 Volunteers Help Run Fort Worth’s 45th Annual Cowtown Marathon

More than 20,000 runners will put on their laces and take to the pavement as part of the run. 2023 Coteown Marathon.

“We have every state in the US represented,” said Heidi Schwartz, chief executive of the Cowtown Marathon.

Runners from 11 countries are registered for the three-day event.

In addition to camaraderie, a challenge, and a finisher’s medal, runners are also helping to shape the future of children across North Texas.

“The only reason we’re hosting this event is because of our charity program,” Schwartz said. “This is CALF, which stands for Children’s Activities for Life and Fitness. And the proceeds from our event go towards this so that we can supply the children with socks and shoes. We help train them. We help pay their entry fee.”

Children under 17 can take part in the Kids 5K run on Saturday at 9:00. On Saturday there will also be adult races for 5 and 10 km.

“We have a half marathon, a full marathon, an ultramarathon and a Healthy Hig relay on Sunday,” Schwartz said.

This is a big task that becomes possible year after year thanks to the support of volunteers. According to the organizers, a team of about 3,500 volunteers gathered this year.

“I love it. The people are amazing,” said David McDowell, who has returned as a volunteer for the Cowtown Marathon for the past 12 years. “I think it’s just some fun for me. For my retirement life.

“I went to high school and college,” McDowell added.

As a retired runner, he understands the joy, anxiety and discipline that goes into race day. It’s part of what made him come back to help run the merchandise store at the health and fitness show.

“I did merchandising for so many years before retiring that I just love doing it,” McDowell said.

The 2023 show is expected to have 10,000 visitors on Friday and almost 60,000 on Saturday.

“You know, you get a little tired after a while, especially at my age,” McDowell said. “There is no break here. We paste our steps here. Believe me.”

The event is open to the public and will include interactive exhibits, runner safety and education, receiving in-person event packages, and last-minute registration for the 2023 races.

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The 2023 Cowtown Marathon Health & Fitness Show will take place at the Will Rogers Memorial Center on Lancaster Avenue.

WHEN:

Friday, February 24 from 11:30 to 19:00

Saturday, February 25 from 6:00 to 17:00.

All races will begin and end at the Will Rogers Memorial Center on Lancaster Avenue.