2021 Missoula Marathon is going virtual for the second year in a row due to the pandemic

The Missoula Marathon is going virtual again this year.

Run Wild Missoula says they worked with the Missoula City-County Health Department to plan for an in-person event, but that just isn't possible right now.

Thousands of people travel from all over to participate in the races, and organizers don't want to risk spreading COVID-19.

After canceling for the first time ever -- and losing beloved race director Tony Banovich last year – Run Wild Missoula says they've had a difficult year, but are looking forward to offering the races in this format.

Registration opened in October, and Race Director Ashely Cossairt says people are ready to run in June. While she knows it won't be the same, this was the best decision.

"You really miss that human connection. Trying to host a, put together an event that has all these restrictions, and you can't really interact,” Cossairt told MTN News. “You can't cross the finish line and have somebody put that medal around your neck for you -- that's such a huge accomplishment and to not be able to experience that, it is sad."

The marathon typically brings in about $2 million to the local economy. But perks of going virtual mean anyone can participate from anywhere. Registration is open online for all the races here.

“We know marathon weekend brings thousands of people to downtown Missoula and is a significant draw for local hotels, restaurants, breweries, retailers, and other small businesses,” Cossairt stated. “However, the medical support staff we rely on will still be very busy serving our community in a significant way by providing treatment and vaccinations, and it would clearly be irresponsible for us to put our community at risk by hosting an event with this type of reach.”

posted Friday March 5th
by Katie Miller