Cowtown Marathon

Location: Fort Worth, Texas
Country: United States
Website: https://cowtownmarathon.org
2025 Marathon Date: 23/02/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 01/03/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:25:58
% Sub-3s: 1–2%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Cowtown Marathon takes place each February in Fort Worth, Texas, as part of a major multi-race weekend that includes distances from 5K to ultramarathon. It is one of the largest running events in the state and features a scenic but challenging marathon course that mixes historic landmarks, riverside trails and rolling topography.

The marathon course begins in downtown Fort Worth and weaves through cultural districts, residential neighbourhoods, and along the Trinity River. The route features several rolling hills and elevation changes, particularly in the first half. Runners face a long uphill segment early on, followed by sustained descents and smaller climbs that continue throughout the course. Road surfaces are generally good, with a few sections of uneven pavement.

February weather in Fort Worth is unpredictable. Cool and dry conditions are common, but sudden temperature shifts and wind gusts are not unusual. Race-day mornings often begin around 5–10°C, with the potential for warmer conditions by the final third. Rain is possible but not typical.

The Cowtown Marathon is well supported by local volunteers and event staff, with aid stations every few kilometres offering water, electrolytes and basic medical assistance. Start and finish areas are well managed, with the Will Rogers Memorial Center serving as the hub for the weekend’s events.

Crowd support is variable. The downtown and cultural district sections see enthusiastic turnout, while quieter stretches have more sparse coverage. Local music and cheer groups contribute to the atmosphere, but this is not a wall-to-wall spectator race.

For sub-3 runners, the Cowtown Marathon offers a respectable early-season challenge. It is not flat or optimised for fast times, but the course’s structure allows for strong aerobic work and strategic pacing. Runners looking for a marathon to sharpen strength and test control will find the Cowtown Marathon to be a demanding but well-executed event.