Did you know? The Montana Women's Run was started by men

What began in 1982 as a small race with approximately 200 women competing in its first year, the Montana Women's Run was initially an act of gratitude from a group of men. The Yellowstone Rim Runners decided to host a race for the women who worked behind-the-scenes to organize the men’s races over the years. With the help of the Junior League of Billings, the first Women's Run was held in Pioneer Park.

“Women were intimidated by running with men at that time,” said long-time board member, Ekkie Wedul. “There was not much of an emphasis on women taking care of themselves.”

Since then, the Women’s Run has grown exponentially, making it the largest racing event in Montana. With as many as 9,000 participants, women from all over the region come to celebrate and promote unity, health and fitness. Hand-in-hand, with a stroller, in a wheelchair, walking or running, the race brings women of all ages and abilities together.

“There is such a sense of comradery. Generations of women come together to support one another. Our focus is health and fitness in Billings, the relationships that develop is just an added bonus,” said Wedul.

Many small groups that began at the “Getting Started” clinics continue after the run is over. Women have found exercising together produces emotional and physical health.

“Getting Started” clinics will take place every Monday at 5:30 p.m., from March 18–May 6, in Billings and Lockwood to prepare participants for race day. Additional events include a free kids run, women’s expo and a $10 kickoff dinner. Pre-registration is required for dinner.

The 38th Annual Montana Women's Run is Saturday, May 11, with the 5 mile race beginning at 8 a.m., and the 2 mile race at 9 a.m. Runners can register May 8-10, at 213 N. 29th St. $30.00/walk-in entry or $27 online.

The award ceremony takes place at 9:30 a.m., under Skypoint. Cash prizes, medals, trophies and certificates will be awarded to top participants from their respected divisions.

“Awards are based on age. We have seen women who are 100 years old participate,” said Wedul. “Many of them have never participated in a sporting event. I had a woman with tears in her eyes saying she had never participated in something where the National Anthem is played.”

For 24 years, the Montana Women's Run has donated as much as one million dollars to female- driven organizations, like the YWCA, Billings Clinic Women's Wellness Fund, MSU-B Women's Cross Country Scholarship, Rocky Mountain College Women's Scholarship and the Billings Family YMCA.

What began as a small movement towards equality has grown to become a celebratory influence in Montana and the surrounding areas. Appropriately set the day before Mother’s Day, the common thread of valuing the women in our life – whether it is your mother, grandmother, daughter, friend, or the one you see in the mirror – is evident.

“There is no reason to be intimated. Just try it once. You’ll love it,” said Wedul.

For more information on the 38th Annual Montana Women's Run, go to womensrun.org.