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Billings Runners Trade Summer Races for Montana Marathon Training Push

With the 2026 Montana Marathon set for September 20, local runners turn to weekly training groups following June events including the Heart & Sole Run & Walk and Forged Fitness Race.

By Billings Sport Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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The 2026 Montana Marathon takes place on September 20 with a full marathon starting in Molt at 7:00 AM and finishing at Pioneer Park in Billings, joined by a Half Marathon, 10K and 5K.

Summer Events Set Training Tone

The 47th Annual Heart & Sole Run & Walk on June 20 featured a 10K RRCA State Championship, 5K and 2-mile walk from St. Vincent Healthcare to Dehler Park. The 18th Annual Saturday Live MORE COLOR Fun Run also occurred on June 20 at Riverfront Park starting at 10:00 AM. The Forged Fitness Race followed on June 27 at 8:00 AM at 100 S 24th St W as an obstacle-style challenge.

Weekly Groups Keep Momentum

Local runners maintain form through recurring meetups such as Fit4Mom on Saturdays from 8 to 9 AM, Yellowstone Rim Runners on Wednesdays at 6 PM and Saturdays at 7 AM, and Yellowstone Valley Distance Project on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM at Pioneer Park. These sessions provide structured options ahead of longer distances.

The September 20 date anchors the fall calendar after the June races, giving participants a clear target for continued preparation through established local routes and parks.

Registration and Participation Details

Day-of registration remains available for select shorter events, while the Montana Marathon offers multiple distance choices with start times staggered from 7:00 AM onward. Runners can join weekly groups at Pioneer Park or other standard meeting points to build toward the full course that ends in the park.

Those planning to enter the September event should review official schedules for the Half Marathon start at 8:00 AM and shorter races beginning later that morning, then connect with one of the listed weekly programs for consistent local training support.

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