Missoula Marathon Could Set Records in 2026

There are still several weeks of registrations ahead, but it's already looking like this might be the biggest field ever to participate in the Missoula Marathon in June.

Race Director Trisha Drobeck says the pace of entries is strong, just like the runners…

"We are about 20% over where we were last year at this time, which is incredible, little terrifying, but also so exciting. So I think we're going to have a really big turnout and possibly one of our bigger years, if not the biggest."- Missoula Marathon Race Director Trish Drobeck

And Drobeck says the Marathon is continuing to draw a lot of both in-state and out-of-state runners, with many participants planning the race as a piece of their Montana vacation.

"I think we're just kind of a gateway for people to come out and visit and like, 'I'm going to head up to Glacier down to Yellowstone, or maybe down the Bitterroot,', Drobeck says. "So I think people, it's a good stop along the way."

     "I don't think we are the final destination necessarily, but I do think that they really like to come, do the race, and then move along to somewhere else beautiful in Montana." 🏃🏻‍♀️

READ MORE: The 2026 Missoula Marathon 

Sheehy has a close shave

Investigators are now saying Senator Tim Sheehy was apparently on a routine certification flight when he was forced to make an emergency landing on Friday.

The Madison County Sheriff's Office says the Senator and another person were on board the plane when he put down in a field outside Ennis. Neither was injured. The Sheriff's Department says there was a minor fuel leak at the scene, which was dealt with. It's not known if that had anything to do with the reason for the landing. Federal aviation officials are investigating.

New UM President expected this week

Next to our Congressmen and Governor, two of the most important public jobs in the state are our university presidents. And an opening at the University of Montana could be filled this week.

The Montana Board of Regents will meet in Helena on Wednesday, and it appears that Dr. Jeremiah Shinn, the current interim president at Boise State, will get the job.

      The agenda is for the board to consider the employment agreement for Shinn, with an annual salary of $467,000.