“I put on three layers of tech shirts and I put on earmuffs,” one runner told WFAA.
FORT WORTH, Texas — For the past three years, Heather Balsinger has maintained a steady training schedule to prepare for the Cowtown Marathon.
“Very consistent running schedule. I get on the treadmill just about 2 miles every class,” Heather Balsinger said.
She picked up her registration packet, knowing that this year, the stakes are high due to the cold weather. With frigid temperatures in the forecast, runners are taking extra precautions to avoid injuries.
“Definitely the risk of injury is higher. So, making sure I get enough stretching and make sure I’m still hydrated, even though I don’t feel like I’m sweating, I need to replenish my water,” Balsinger said.
The Cowtown Marathon has grown into one of the largest multi-event races in North Texas. Last year, organizers issued a heat advisory for runners, but 2025 is bringing an entirely different challenge. For veteran participants like 78-year-old Phillip Jackson, adapting to extreme weather is nothing new.
“Cowtown is crazy because some years it’s warm, and one year we had ice on the ground,” Jackson said.
This year, runners are layering up to stay warm on race day. Jackson is prepared no matter what the weather. He is determined not to let the temperature get in the way of his running.
“I put on three layers of tech shirts and I put on earmuffs,” Jackson said.
Marathon organizers emailed runners with a Race Weekend Weather Update, noting the forecast of “mostly clear skies and mild temperatures.”
“I’ll definitely have a beanie on. I’ll have some gloves on, so I’ll make sure my ears and hands are covered. I’ll have some thick socks to protect against blisters,” Balsinger said.
At the 2025 Health & Fitness Expo at Will Rogers Memorial Center on Friday, runners prepared by picking up last-minute gear—including cold-weather running apparel from vendors.
While the conditions may be tough, Balsinger has a little extra motivation to push through the race—her 4-year-old daughter, Jenna. While attending the expo with her dad, a former runner himself, Jenna made a special sign to cheer her mom on to the finish line.
“I just want to finish and my goal time to be it is 2:35,” Balsinger said.
