On Saturday, June 3rd, the city of Williston will be hosting its very first marathon event, the Williston Marathon. Taking place at the XWA Airport, this exciting race is set to kick off at 6:30 AM. The marathon is the brainchild of race directors Hugh Kuchta and Janessa Storlie, who have worked tirelessly to bring this event to the city. What sets this marathon apart is not just the opportunity for runners to challenge themselves, but also the fact that all funds raised will go towards supporting the Upper Missouri Relay for Life.
For those interested in participating, it is essential to register by June 2nd on the official event website at https://runsignup.com/Race/ND/Williston/WillistonMarathon. To streamline the process, participants are encouraged to pick up their race packets at the ARC on June 2nd from 4-7 PM in the meeting rooms. It's a great opportunity to connect with fellow runners and get prepared for the big day.
The Williston Marathon offers a range of races to cater to different skill levels and preferences. Participants can choose from the full marathon, half marathon, 10k, and 5k races. The marathon and half marathon routes will take runners through the scenic landscapes surrounding the airport, including stretches on the air strips, farmland, and gravel roads. The organizers have taken great care to ensure that the course meets the standards set by USA Track and Field, making it a certified Boston Marathon Qualifier, attracting runners from across the region, including Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota.
The certification process involved working with an experienced course measurer from the USA Track and Field organization. Hugh Kuchta, one of the race directors, collaborated with this expert to measure and map out the courses. Kuchta himself brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the event, ensuring that the Williston Marathon adheres to the highest running standards.
While the marathon is the main attraction, the event is not limited to runners alone. The Williston Marathon invites the entire community to come out and enjoy the festivities. Food trucks will be on-site to provide a delicious array of culinary options, including offerings from Busted Knuckle and Sunshine Latte. Additionally, the Williston Parks and Recreation Department will set up obstacle courses for children to enjoy. It's a family-friendly event, allowing loved ones to cheer on their participating family members while engaging in various activities.
The Williston Marathon is a milestone for the city, marking one of the first major events to be held at the XWA Airport. Apart from the aviation show, this marathon serves as an opportunity for the community to gather at the airport and showcase all it has to offer.
To ensure a smooth race day, participants are required to register online ahead of time. Registration will not be available on the day of the event, except for the 5k family walk, which allows for on-site registration. The marathon will kick off bright and early at 6:30 AM, followed by the staggered start of the other races. The half marathon starts at 6:45 AM, the 10k at 7:00 AM, and the 5k at 7:15 AM. The family walk will commence shortly after the 5k start.
The Williston Marathon promises to be an unforgettable event that combines the joy of running with community engagement and support for a meaningful cause. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting your running journey, this race offers a fantastic