I never cease to be amazed at the generosity and good will of people within the running community. And, nowhere is this more evident than with respect to the Missoula Marathon.

Throughout the year, almost 40 Run Wild Missoula members give up some of their time every month to be part of the committee planning the marathon. As we're now into marathon week (as of this newsletter), even more people are stepping up and lending a hand.

We had almost a dozen friendly souls show up to unwrap the 6,800+ 5K, Half Marathon and Marathon medals. Around 20 showed up on July 5th to clean the marathon and half marathon courses from the Peak to Frenchtown and on 7th Street within the city limits (they collected over 100 bags of garbage!!).

And, as of this writing, we have almost 650 members of the Missoula community who have volunteered to be part of marathon weekend. It is incredible to see that so many people are fully vested in this fantastic event. And, I can't begin to describe the gratitude to all the people who give of their time to make this all happen. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!

That being said..............we could use even more volunteer support. To really make the weekend's event safe (first and foremost) and seamless, we need at least 100 more volunteers. It's not too late for you, your friends, family, co-workers and casual acquaintances to sign up and take part. Simply go to www.missoulamarathon.org, or click here and then click on the volunteer tab and register - easy, breezy.

As Trisha Drobeck likes to say - marathon weekend is like Christmas in July! And, it's all because of our great community that we're able to deliver presents to the more than 6,500 participants. And, as Santa comes down the chimney in his shorts and singlet, we'll hear him proclaim - Merry Marathon To All And To All A Good Race!!!!

See you on the roads, tracks and trails.