Heidi Swartz, Executive Director of The Cowtown Marathon - Promoting a Lifelong Love of Fitness and Philanthropy

ChangeMakers

During the interview, Heidi discusses her roots in Montana, moving to Texas and what inspired her to join The Cowtown Marathon. She talks about the business of hosting marathons, the mindset of event production and tips for success, starting a nonprofit to focus on helping youth and encouraging health and fitness, some of the secrets to their success and growth over the years, tips for fundraising and marketing, and much more.

About Heidi Swartz:

Heidi Swartz is Executive Director of The Cowtown Marathon in Fort Worth, Texas. With Heidi’s direction the event has nearly tripled in size since 2004, with over 25,000 participants and seven races taking place the last weekend in February. In 2006, she created The Cowtown Marathon's associated non-profit organization, C.A.L.F. (Children's Activities for Life and Fitness), which in the past 12 years has provided over 40,000 pairs of running shoes to disadvantaged children along with greatly reduced entry fees for The Cowtown Kids 5K Run.

By bringing fitness awareness and running enthusiasm to local schools, Swartz – a runner, herself – is invested in making the City of Fort Worth a healthier place to live. Swartz was awarded the Great Women of Texas award in 2016. She served on the original committee that formed "FitWorth," the Mayor of Fort Worth's healthy living initiative, and remained on the board serving as secretary. She serves on the Marketing Advisory Board for Visit Fort Worth, the Board of Directors for the Fort Worth Sports Commission and serves on the board for the National Trade Organization, Running USA. Heidi Swartz is also a successful and in-demand speaker and consultant for other race events, acting as an expert in race management and producing multiple events throughout the year.

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