Leasa Welter's Staging Area

This was my first Montana half marathon. I happened to be in the area for a family reunion and decided to run Missoula. The temps were hot all week in the 90’s. The event staff kept runners informed with frequent email updates throughout the week of weather predictions and adjustments. As a half marathon runner, the weather and adjustments didn’t effect my race. This was my first event that isn’t a loop route. You’re required to take a shuttle provided by the event to the start line. The majority of the course is gradual downhill grades. The first few miles are in the foothills of the moutains, rural area and provides a picturesque running view. You’ll run on paved roads with the river nearby and wild life can be seen. Eventually you’ll run the majority of the course in shaded residential areas. Event staff and local police enforcement are at each intersection to control traffic. The crowd support is limited in the first few miles due being a rural area. You’ll come across more spectators and crowd support during the last half of the course in the residential and downtown areas. Missoula was an enjoyable experience. I would run again if I’m the area.

Flat and fast course running on Pacific Coast Highway a Pacific Ocean view. Utilize the free shuttle bus system from several locations on race day as parking is limited and is metered city parking. Also utilize the bag drop option if you do not plan to run with all your belongings. The past 4 consecutive years I’ve ran the temps have been in the high 40’s to low 50’s at race start and have climbed to mid 60’s to 70’s by mid morning.

Third time Surf City half marathon runner. I plan to come back next year! I’m a runner from Minnesota and run the Fargo Half Marathon most frequently (Fargo, North Dakota). I’m used to running a flat and fast course. Surf City is very similar and provides a great opportunity for PR times and beautiful scenery.