| 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | |
| H (°F) | 63 | 62 | 67 | 79 | 73 |
| L (°F) | 30 | 31 | 50 | 59 | 45 |
| Powered by Dark Sky | |||||
The course was scenic. Loved running through the stockyards . Sign up easy Packet pickup was a breeze Had a chip issue they fixed on the spot Swag was awesome MORE
The course was scenic. Loved running through the stockyards .
Sign up easy
Packet pickup was a breeze
Had a chip issue they fixed on the spot
Swag was awesome
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You will feel so at home if you are from out of town. What great atmosphere before during and after. Great to stay post race! You will love the Fort … MORE
You will feel so at home if you are from out of town. What great atmosphere before during and after.
Great to stay post race! You will love the Fort Worth heart!
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Great race all the way around. Has been going on for over 40 years. I make sure to register for half marathon every year. Don't want to miss the energy … MORE
Great race all the way around. Has been going on for over 40 years. I make sure to register for half marathon every year. Don’t want to miss the energy and atmosphere!! I ran the Cowtown in 2018 for a best time of 1 hour and 53 minutes and 10 seconds. No regrets for this run as I trained hard for it and it showed.
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The expo has no signage whatsoever outside, and it's a large complex with multiple buildings, so you have to know where you're going. Goodie bag is pretty much what you'd … MORE
The expo has no signage whatsoever outside, and it’s a large complex with multiple buildings, so you have to know where you’re going.
Goodie bag is pretty much what you’d expect from a race of this size.
The corral system works reasonably well, based entirely on honor code. Make sure you fill out an accurate predicted finish time when you register!
The course is OK, overall. The highlight is definitely the historic stockyard district, followed by the last 6 miles or so, which are mostly in city parks. The course goes right past TCU, but you don’t even notice; they should do a better job showcasing the campus.
Overall, it’s a well-run race, and a noticeable effort is made to make it a fun, enjoyable experience for everyone.
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I did the Cowtown challenge and that it was. but the outstanding support along the way made it a little easier. the water stops, 1st aid, police, and "cheerleaders" all … MORE
I did the Cowtown challenge and that it was. but the outstanding support along the way made it a little easier. the water stops, 1st aid, police, and “cheerleaders” all made it worth it. I loved seeing and meeting runners from EVERYWHERE! the corrals were very well organized. the finishers shoot was smooth and easy.
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I have not done Cowtown since I was a kid, it has changed a lot but in a good way. I had a blast. cant wait for next year. very … MORE
I have not done Cowtown since I was a kid, it has changed a lot but in a good way. I had a blast. cant wait for next year. very well organized, flowed great! I love that they had more composting and recycling bins than trash cans. food at the end was spot on.
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I was told that there would be hills so I trained for some and while the hills were challenging none were too overwhelming. As someone once said “If it doesn’t … MORE
I was told that there would be hills so I trained for some and while the hills were challenging none were too overwhelming.
As someone once said “If it doesn’t challenge you it doesn’t change you”!
Now that I’ve run the course I know what to expect for next year!
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This is a great course, feel, and community! My goal was to run the entire half without walking. Everyone was super encouraging and helpful along the way. The emails leading … MORE
This is a great course, feel, and community! My goal was to run the entire half without walking. Everyone was super encouraging and helpful along the way. The emails leading up to the race were very informative. I will be back!
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Music stations along the run are pretty awesome. Course is fairly flat with a few large hills. Only complaint was the parking situation. Parking was not organized and there was … MORE
Music stations along the run are pretty awesome. Course is fairly flat with a few large hills. Only complaint was the parking situation. Parking was not organized and there was very little direction on best routes to get to the race and parking information.
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the thought process and planning is incredible.. lots of people gathered in one location. I would sum it up as extremely organized chaos! I love this race and will continue … MORE
the thought process and planning is incredible.. lots of people gathered in one location. I would sum it up as extremely organized chaos! I love this race and will continue being a part of it.
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I love this course for a number of reasons: * It's not advertised as an 'easy' course. No course is easy, or everyone would do it! * Fort Worth is … MORE
I love this course for a number of reasons:
* It’s not advertised as an ‘easy’ course. No course is easy, or everyone would do it!
* Fort Worth is one of the greatest towns in the country. This course gives you a look at the best parts of town.
* The volunteers are top notch, friendly and cheer you on
* Water stops are perfectly set up. The only thing I would change is potentially having water/gatorade on both sides of the street to avoid crowded patches where you can’t get by from people stopping.
* Mayor Betsy Price’s appearance at every race and her priority of keeping Fort Worth FIT!
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The race is great, be prepared for the weather, its Texas so the weather can change at any moment but the staff is always really helpful and ensures that you … MORE
The race is great, be prepared for the weather, its Texas so the weather can change at any moment but the staff is always really helpful and ensures that you are safe. If you are doing the ultra prepare mentally for those last 6 miles because you are running solo
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I ran the Cowtown for the first time in 2020, and I'll be back! Here's a short review on the strengths and (few) weaknesses. Expo The expo was at the … MORE
I ran the Cowtown for the first time in 2020, and I’ll be back! Here’s a short review on the strengths and (few) weaknesses.
Expo
The expo was at the Amon Carter center, which is a large multi-purpose campus near downtown with ample parking. This was a really well done expo! Lots of vendors but not pushy. Efficient bib pickup. You could get in and out quickly if you wanted, or linger and shop like I did, and either way it was an easy experience.
Course
I ran the Cowtown Challenge, so I ran the 10K and the Half Marathon. The 10K course was pleasant…we went through neighborhoods then ran most of the race along a greenbelt. It was crowded but I didn’t feel jostled. The Half started out similarly…we ran through neighborhoods and wound our way through the city. There were a few bands and Elvis (hi, King!) along the route. I always like that. Around mile 6, we ran through the historic Stockyards. That was a fun and cool experience and gave us a nice mid-point distraction. After that point, we ran toward downtown in a seemingly never-ending uphill…wow was that rough! Eventually we worked our way through downtown Fort Worth, said goodbye to the full marathoners and took a right on Lancaster, then worked our way back to the finish. Good course, lots of variety.
The start and finish lines were the same for the 10K and the half. I liked it because I knew what to expect for the half.
Race Production
The Cowtown really outshined similar races in the organization and production of the event. Everything started on-time, as advertised, and in a logical and runner-friendly manner. The corrals were well spaced and not cramped, which I appreciated. The post-finish food, water, and other amenities also impressed me…they were spaced out well and ample. Perfect for spectators and well wishers. Thanks, Cowtown!
Swag
Cowtown’s swag is THE BEST! I did the challenge so I ended up with three shirts, a 1/4 pullover, and three medals! The shirts are well made and perfect for practice running…I even wear mine to OrangeTheory and get compliments on the material. They provided a really impressive value there.
Pre/Post Race Communications
The Cowtown also excelled in pre and post-race communications. We got timely emails on training, parking, charitable opportunities, and updates on the weather (it was warm on Sunday for the marathon and half-marathon). The info was correct and well presented. This reduces stress and allows us all to be efficient in our decision making.
Final Thoughts
The Cowtown was spectacular and I will be back. Other races could learn a lot from how organized and thoughtful this was. I will be back next year!
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My first Cowtown Challenge race. I did the 5K Saturday February 29 twice. First time I ran 27 min 16 secs. a personal best although the most rewarding was the … MORE
My first Cowtown Challenge race. I did the 5K Saturday February 29 twice. First time I ran 27 min 16 secs. a personal best although the most rewarding was the second time when I walk ran with my Autistic Nephew. He has never walked or ran a 5 K and I was thrilled to get the opportunity to be part of His first 5K. He has not stopped talking about his medal and continues to ask if I want to go run. See his pictures below.
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Very well planned out race! Lots of swag! This year the shirts were running really small. Shirts in the past were amazing. Also, loved the long sleeve half zip for … MORE
Very well planned out race! Lots of swag! This year the shirts were running really small. Shirts in the past were amazing. Also, loved the long sleeve half zip for the challenge. Thank you!!
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The course has challenging portions which keeps it interesting. It is a very well supported race which always make it that much fun. However if you are not a fan … MORE
The course has challenging portions which keeps it interesting. It is a very well supported race which always make it that much fun. However if you are not a fan of big races, I do think it’s larger than what I enjoy, a lot of corrals and waiting to get started.
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Best aspect of this race was the variety of the course: Parks, the historic Stockyards, downtown Fort Worth, along Magnolia Ave, through TCU campus, by Colonial golf course, etc. made … MORE
Best aspect of this race was the variety of the course: Parks, the historic Stockyards, downtown Fort Worth, along Magnolia Ave, through TCU campus, by Colonial golf course, etc. made for a great course.
If I were to suggest changes, it would be:
1) more consistent aid stations after mile 10 for the marathon route. If it weren’t for neighborhood participation I would have been in desperate need for water.
2) encourage more businesses along Magnolia Ave to participate in race support and increase the route along Magnolia. It’s my favorite part of Fort Worth for restaurants, so it would be great to see some participation and a longer stretch there
3) mile markers for every mile! I didn’t see any at 25 or 26
4) misting stations and cooling towels for the warmer weather
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I love participating in this race! I look forward you staying healthy and competing every chance I get! This is tiny absolute favorite race! I am always excited and sign … MORE
I love participating in this race! I look forward you staying healthy and competing every chance I get! This is tiny absolute favorite race! I am always excited and sign up for the next year as soon as possible!
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This run is fun from the beginning at the expo all the way to the finish line. Lots of beauty to look at in Ft. Worth. The people are amazing!! … MORE
This run is fun from the beginning at the expo all the way to the finish line. Lots of beauty to look at in Ft. Worth. The people are amazing!! This is one that I will do every year!
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corrals were so organized! About 5 separate corrals were laid out parallel to the start line, so the later corrals could see the first groups start out, and corrals were … MORE
corrals were so organized! About 5 separate corrals were laid out parallel to the start line, so the later corrals could see the first groups start out, and corrals were enforced. This meant you couldn’t bump yourself up to a faster corral, but could bump down to a slower one to run with friends. I know this doesn’t seem like a big deal, but its a safety issue. A runner in a too fast corral could very easily be ran over in the herd of runners leaving the very tight start line. The first half mile is always very crowded and it’s easy to run into other runners if your pace isn’t similar.
The first mile was compact and completely downhill. I am terrible about starting out too fast in these big hype, big races, but the downward slope of the first mile didn’t make it seem as fast. Really! The first 5 miles were relatively easy and mostly flat with a few rolling hills. We ran through some parks, and the crowd support was great. Lots of bands and cheering sections along the course.
The Stockyards are the highlight of the race. This area is SO COOL. You run down a hill, take a sharp right and the road becomes brick. Lots of businesses are out and waving. Women dressed as saloon girls, lots of music, and even a longhorn (who seemed very disinterested in the whole thing).
If you’re not from Texas, this is probably the MOST TEXAS you can get during a race. For a vacation race, this one should definitely be on the list. They really embrace the city’s highlights.
Mile 9 starts at the bottom of a bridge that is uphill for about a half mile into downtown. Its beautifully framed with the Tarrant Country Courthouse being directly across the bridge. BUT, you can see this hill FOREVEEEEER. I especially loved the music and the energy at the top of this hill.
After the race, I was pretty irked by the beer tent. They were refusing to serve any beers or seltzers for another hour according to one man at the tent. (And he was rude about it, so I’m guessing runners had been coming by for a bit asking.) It was unusual, and ended up leaving without the finisher’s beer. A first for me, but I’m definitely not letting it ruin an awesome race and and awesome PR.
In Summary
The Cowtown Marathon is definitely a race that I’ll be running again. The course is challenging, but has some awesome sights and a definitely a “Cowtown” feel. Water stops were plentiful and the crowd support was amazing. (And some great swag!
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This race checks all the boxes
The course was scenic. Loved running through the stockyards . Sign up easy Packet pickup was a breeze Had a chip issue they fixed on the spot Swag was awesome MORE
The course was scenic. Loved running through the stockyards .
Sign up easy
Packet pickup was a breeze
Had a chip issue they fixed on the spot
Swag was awesome
Happy Warm Friendly Family Scenic
You will feel so at home if you are from out of town. What great atmosphere before during and after. Great to stay post race! You will love the Fort … MORE
You will feel so at home if you are from out of town. What great atmosphere before during and after.
Great to stay post race! You will love the Fort Worth heart!
Love the Cowtown Marathon!
Great race all the way around. Has been going on for over 40 years. I make sure to register for half marathon every year. Don't want to miss the energy … MORE
Great race all the way around. Has been going on for over 40 years. I make sure to register for half marathon every year. Don’t want to miss the energy and atmosphere!! I ran the Cowtown in 2018 for a best time of 1 hour and 53 minutes and 10 seconds. No regrets for this run as I trained hard for it and it showed.
Fun, well-organized large city race
The expo has no signage whatsoever outside, and it's a large complex with multiple buildings, so you have to know where you're going. Goodie bag is pretty much what you'd … MORE
The expo has no signage whatsoever outside, and it’s a large complex with multiple buildings, so you have to know where you’re going.
Goodie bag is pretty much what you’d expect from a race of this size.
The corral system works reasonably well, based entirely on honor code. Make sure you fill out an accurate predicted finish time when you register!
The course is OK, overall. The highlight is definitely the historic stockyard district, followed by the last 6 miles or so, which are mostly in city parks. The course goes right past TCU, but you don’t even notice; they should do a better job showcasing the campus.
Overall, it’s a well-run race, and a noticeable effort is made to make it a fun, enjoyable experience for everyone.
would do again
I did the Cowtown challenge and that it was. but the outstanding support along the way made it a little easier. the water stops, 1st aid, police, and "cheerleaders" all … MORE
I did the Cowtown challenge and that it was. but the outstanding support along the way made it a little easier. the water stops, 1st aid, police, and “cheerleaders” all made it worth it. I loved seeing and meeting runners from EVERYWHERE! the corrals were very well organized. the finishers shoot was smooth and easy.
simply amazing
I have not done Cowtown since I was a kid, it has changed a lot but in a good way. I had a blast. cant wait for next year. very … MORE
I have not done Cowtown since I was a kid, it has changed a lot but in a good way. I had a blast. cant wait for next year. very well organized, flowed great! I love that they had more composting and recycling bins than trash cans. food at the end was spot on.
Challenging but worth it!
I was told that there would be hills so I trained for some and while the hills were challenging none were too overwhelming. As someone once said “If it doesn’t … MORE
I was told that there would be hills so I trained for some and while the hills were challenging none were too overwhelming.
As someone once said “If it doesn’t challenge you it doesn’t change you”!
Now that I’ve run the course I know what to expect for next year!
I was challenged!
This is a great course, feel, and community! My goal was to run the entire half without walking. Everyone was super encouraging and helpful along the way. The emails leading … MORE
This is a great course, feel, and community! My goal was to run the entire half without walking. Everyone was super encouraging and helpful along the way. The emails leading up to the race were very informative. I will be back!
Great Race
Music stations along the run are pretty awesome. Course is fairly flat with a few large hills. Only complaint was the parking situation. Parking was not organized and there was … MORE
Music stations along the run are pretty awesome. Course is fairly flat with a few large hills. Only complaint was the parking situation. Parking was not organized and there was very little direction on best routes to get to the race and parking information.
My hands-down favorite race
the thought process and planning is incredible.. lots of people gathered in one location. I would sum it up as extremely organized chaos! I love this race and will continue … MORE
the thought process and planning is incredible.. lots of people gathered in one location. I would sum it up as extremely organized chaos! I love this race and will continue being a part of it.
My Favorite Course
I love this course for a number of reasons: * It's not advertised as an 'easy' course. No course is easy, or everyone would do it! * Fort Worth is … MORE
I love this course for a number of reasons:
* It’s not advertised as an ‘easy’ course. No course is easy, or everyone would do it!
* Fort Worth is one of the greatest towns in the country. This course gives you a look at the best parts of town.
* The volunteers are top notch, friendly and cheer you on
* Water stops are perfectly set up. The only thing I would change is potentially having water/gatorade on both sides of the street to avoid crowded patches where you can’t get by from people stopping.
* Mayor Betsy Price’s appearance at every race and her priority of keeping Fort Worth FIT!
Awesome Race, Great staff & environment
The race is great, be prepared for the weather, its Texas so the weather can change at any moment but the staff is always really helpful and ensures that you … MORE
The race is great, be prepared for the weather, its Texas so the weather can change at any moment but the staff is always really helpful and ensures that you are safe. If you are doing the ultra prepare mentally for those last 6 miles because you are running solo
Great Weekend In Cowtown!
I ran the Cowtown for the first time in 2020, and I'll be back! Here's a short review on the strengths and (few) weaknesses. Expo The expo was at the … MORE
I ran the Cowtown for the first time in 2020, and I’ll be back! Here’s a short review on the strengths and (few) weaknesses.
Expo
The expo was at the Amon Carter center, which is a large multi-purpose campus near downtown with ample parking. This was a really well done expo! Lots of vendors but not pushy. Efficient bib pickup. You could get in and out quickly if you wanted, or linger and shop like I did, and either way it was an easy experience.
Course
I ran the Cowtown Challenge, so I ran the 10K and the Half Marathon. The 10K course was pleasant…we went through neighborhoods then ran most of the race along a greenbelt. It was crowded but I didn’t feel jostled. The Half started out similarly…we ran through neighborhoods and wound our way through the city. There were a few bands and Elvis (hi, King!) along the route. I always like that. Around mile 6, we ran through the historic Stockyards. That was a fun and cool experience and gave us a nice mid-point distraction. After that point, we ran toward downtown in a seemingly never-ending uphill…wow was that rough! Eventually we worked our way through downtown Fort Worth, said goodbye to the full marathoners and took a right on Lancaster, then worked our way back to the finish. Good course, lots of variety.
The start and finish lines were the same for the 10K and the half. I liked it because I knew what to expect for the half.
Race Production
The Cowtown really outshined similar races in the organization and production of the event. Everything started on-time, as advertised, and in a logical and runner-friendly manner. The corrals were well spaced and not cramped, which I appreciated. The post-finish food, water, and other amenities also impressed me…they were spaced out well and ample. Perfect for spectators and well wishers. Thanks, Cowtown!
Swag
Cowtown’s swag is THE BEST! I did the challenge so I ended up with three shirts, a 1/4 pullover, and three medals! The shirts are well made and perfect for practice running…I even wear mine to OrangeTheory and get compliments on the material. They provided a really impressive value there.
Pre/Post Race Communications
The Cowtown also excelled in pre and post-race communications. We got timely emails on training, parking, charitable opportunities, and updates on the weather (it was warm on Sunday for the marathon and half-marathon). The info was correct and well presented. This reduces stress and allows us all to be efficient in our decision making.
Final Thoughts
The Cowtown was spectacular and I will be back. Other races could learn a lot from how organized and thoughtful this was. I will be back next year!
Train or have pain
My first Cowtown Challenge race. I did the 5K Saturday February 29 twice. First time I ran 27 min 16 secs. a personal best although the most rewarding was the … MORE
My first Cowtown Challenge race. I did the 5K Saturday February 29 twice. First time I ran 27 min 16 secs. a personal best although the most rewarding was the second time when I walk ran with my Autistic Nephew. He has never walked or ran a 5 K and I was thrilled to get the opportunity to be part of His first 5K. He has not stopped talking about his medal and continues to ask if I want to go run. See his pictures below.
Great race! Great organization!
Very well planned out race! Lots of swag! This year the shirts were running really small. Shirts in the past were amazing. Also, loved the long sleeve half zip for … MORE
Very well planned out race! Lots of swag! This year the shirts were running really small. Shirts in the past were amazing. Also, loved the long sleeve half zip for the challenge. Thank you!!
Highly recommend!
The course has challenging portions which keeps it interesting. It is a very well supported race which always make it that much fun. However if you are not a fan … MORE
The course has challenging portions which keeps it interesting. It is a very well supported race which always make it that much fun. However if you are not a fan of big races, I do think it’s larger than what I enjoy, a lot of corrals and waiting to get started.
Consistent production, more aid stations
Best aspect of this race was the variety of the course: Parks, the historic Stockyards, downtown Fort Worth, along Magnolia Ave, through TCU campus, by Colonial golf course, etc. made … MORE
Best aspect of this race was the variety of the course: Parks, the historic Stockyards, downtown Fort Worth, along Magnolia Ave, through TCU campus, by Colonial golf course, etc. made for a great course.
If I were to suggest changes, it would be:
1) more consistent aid stations after mile 10 for the marathon route. If it weren’t for neighborhood participation I would have been in desperate need for water.
2) encourage more businesses along Magnolia Ave to participate in race support and increase the route along Magnolia. It’s my favorite part of Fort Worth for restaurants, so it would be great to see some participation and a longer stretch there
3) mile markers for every mile! I didn’t see any at 25 or 26
4) misting stations and cooling towels for the warmer weather
Great every year!
I love participating in this race! I look forward you staying healthy and competing every chance I get! This is tiny absolute favorite race! I am always excited and sign … MORE
I love participating in this race! I look forward you staying healthy and competing every chance I get! This is tiny absolute favorite race! I am always excited and sign up for the next year as soon as possible!
One of my favorite runs
This run is fun from the beginning at the expo all the way to the finish line. Lots of beauty to look at in Ft. Worth. The people are amazing!! … MORE
This run is fun from the beginning at the expo all the way to the finish line. Lots of beauty to look at in Ft. Worth. The people are amazing!! This is one that I will do every year!
Great Texas Race
corrals were so organized! About 5 separate corrals were laid out parallel to the start line, so the later corrals could see the first groups start out, and corrals were … MORE
corrals were so organized! About 5 separate corrals were laid out parallel to the start line, so the later corrals could see the first groups start out, and corrals were enforced. This meant you couldn’t bump yourself up to a faster corral, but could bump down to a slower one to run with friends. I know this doesn’t seem like a big deal, but its a safety issue. A runner in a too fast corral could very easily be ran over in the herd of runners leaving the very tight start line. The first half mile is always very crowded and it’s easy to run into other runners if your pace isn’t similar.
The first mile was compact and completely downhill. I am terrible about starting out too fast in these big hype, big races, but the downward slope of the first mile didn’t make it seem as fast. Really! The first 5 miles were relatively easy and mostly flat with a few rolling hills. We ran through some parks, and the crowd support was great. Lots of bands and cheering sections along the course.
The Stockyards are the highlight of the race. This area is SO COOL. You run down a hill, take a sharp right and the road becomes brick. Lots of businesses are out and waving. Women dressed as saloon girls, lots of music, and even a longhorn (who seemed very disinterested in the whole thing).
If you’re not from Texas, this is probably the MOST TEXAS you can get during a race. For a vacation race, this one should definitely be on the list. They really embrace the city’s highlights.
Mile 9 starts at the bottom of a bridge that is uphill for about a half mile into downtown. Its beautifully framed with the Tarrant Country Courthouse being directly across the bridge. BUT, you can see this hill FOREVEEEEER. I especially loved the music and the energy at the top of this hill.
After the race, I was pretty irked by the beer tent. They were refusing to serve any beers or seltzers for another hour according to one man at the tent. (And he was rude about it, so I’m guessing runners had been coming by for a bit asking.) It was unusual, and ended up leaving without the finisher’s beer. A first for me, but I’m definitely not letting it ruin an awesome race and and awesome PR.
In Summary
The Cowtown Marathon is definitely a race that I’ll be running again. The course is challenging, but has some awesome sights and a definitely a “Cowtown” feel. Water stops were plentiful and the crowd support was amazing. (And some great swag!