Host: Chris Detzel (DFW Running Talk)
Guest: Heidi Swartz (Cowtown Marathon Executive Director)

Episode Overview:
This episode offers an intimate look at the Cowtown Marathon through the eyes of its long-time executive director, Heidi Swartz. The conversation begins with Heidi's unexpected entry into running, which started in 1994 when she was required to run the Cowtown 10K with her son's elementary school team. Despite not being a runner initially, the experience inspired her to join the Cowtown organization, where she worked her way up from assistant to executive director in 2003.

Key Discussion Points:
- Heidi's personal journey from non-runner to race director
- The growth of Cowtown into the largest multi-event race in North Texas
- Comprehensive overview of Cowtown's year-round programs, including:
- Youth running initiatives
- Adult training programs
- CALF (Children's Activities for Life and Fitness) program
- Distribution of running shoes to over 5,200 underprivileged kids

Notable Insights:
- Detailed discussion of race organization challenges, including weather contingencies and COVID-19 adaptations
- Behind-the-scenes look at race preparations, including shirt ordering in June for February's race
- Information about Cowtown's community impact and relationship with the city of Fort Worth
- Stories about international participation, including a group from Nice, France
- Current race statistics and registration updates for the upcoming event

The episode provides valuable insights into both the technical aspects of managing a major racing event and the community-focused mission that drives the organization. Heidi's passion for community service and youth development comes through clearly, particularly when discussing programs that provide running shoes and training to underprivileged children.

The conversation concludes with current registration information for the upcoming Cowtown events, emphasizing the race's growing popularity with several distances nearing capacity.