Jaylah Galvan's Staging Area

This was my second year running the Cowtown race weekend, and it’s truly become a race that means a lot to me. From the moment race weekend starts, you can feel the energy and the support from the running community. The organization is amazing packet pickup is smooth, race morning is easy to navigate, and everything feels really well put together.

The course is definitely challenging, especially with the hills, but that’s also part of what makes finishing feel so rewarding. There were so many encouraging spectators and volunteers along the way, and their support really helps carry you through the tougher miles.

This year didn’t go exactly how I planned. I ended up getting hurt during the race, which made the last miles really difficult both physically and mentally. But even in those moments, the atmosphere of the race and the encouragement from people around me reminded me why I love running events like this.

Even though the race didn’t go the way I hoped, crossing that finish line was still incredibly meaningful. Sometimes races aren’t about perfect performances, they’re about showing up, pushing through, and learning from the experience.

Cowtown is the kind of race that keeps you coming back. And next year, I’ll definitely be back at the start line ready to redeem myself.