Run Wild Missoula Monthly Newsletter

Running Wild | May 2021

Run Wild Missoula Interim Executive Director:

A Time for Transparency

Run Wild Missoula has experienced immense changes over the last year from the pandemic to the adaptations we have made to our races and events. There are other pressing changes and commitments that Run Wild Missoula has been exploring over the last year that we are ready to share with you - our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

On the heels of the tragic death of Ahmaud Arbery last year, and many others that followed, our Nation, and specifically the running industry, has been taking a deep dive inward to examine the systemic issues that have been impacting our communities nationwide. More so, Run Wild Missoula staff and Board of Directors have been collectively and continually learning about and growing from our own role in perpetuating inequity by virtue of our innate circumstances. We acknowledge that the running industry is rooted in whiteness and systemic racism, which is something that we will not stand for. We have always considered Run Wild Missoula an inclusive and welcoming space. However, we acknowledge that there is much work to be done to deepen our commitment in a more equitable and sustained manner. We have been taking internal action, which we feel is an important first step to laying the groundwork of our commitment to DEI.

Our commitment to DEI is one of courage and humility, while also normalizing our discomfort with a growth mindset. In all that we do, we strive to make informed and conscious decisions that address the perpetuity of inequity. The fate of our community and the running industry at large rely on equitable and inclusive opportunities for everyone.

Moving ahead, we look forward to offering transparency through our process and including the voices of our community.

Run wild, run free –

Ashley

The search for our next Executive Director

Run Wild Missoula is looking for someone to lead our dynamic, successful non-profit running club. We are seeking a passionate, skilled professional to develop and implement the strategic plan, policies, goals, objectives, and mission of Run Wild Missoula. The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors, Missoula Marathon committee, Run Wild Missoula staff, and volunteers to ensure that all parties work to carry out the organization’s mission.

Applications received by May 28th will be guaranteed consideration. If you or someone you know is interested in the position, please visit http://bit.ly/RWMExecDir

If you have reviewed the position description and have additional questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Ashley Cossairt (ashleyc@runwildmissoula.org) or Catherine Redfern (personnel@runwildmissoula.org)

Member Spotlight: Joanna Unruh

This month’s member spotlight features Joanna Unruh. Joanna is a newer member of Run Wild Missoula and a first-time participant in one of our Spring Trail Sessions. She, along with her husband and two daughters, relocated to Missoula in 2020 from Boulder, CO.

Learn More About Joanna Here >>>

Our member spotlight format has taken on a different shape. We really value our members and want to highlight who they are both as people in our membership and also in the community. We hope that you enjoy getting to know each other as much as we do!

Member Spotlight Nomination Form

Do you know someone from our Run Wild Missoula community that we should get to know better? With over 1,400 members, we have a wealth of talent, passion, expertise, inspiration, and enthusiasm for running and walking among us. Click Here to Nominate

MTC Stewardship Opportunity • May 13th

Join Montana Trail Crew in partnership with Friends of the M Trail to help restore one of Missoula's most iconic trails, the M Trail. Our first day of stewardship will be on Thursday, May 13th from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM. No prior experience is necessary and all are welcome. Stewardship days are limited to 10 volunteers and free. We ask that you please RSVP so that we know how many tools to bring.

For more information & to sign up, click here.

Last Wednesday Beer Run • May 26th

The Last Wednesday Beer Run is back! Beer runs are a casual, fun run/walk open to all runners and all abilities. On the last Wednesday of each month, a 3 and 5 mile route is offered at a different brewery location, and at the end is a social gathering with libations and food. What could be a better way to end the month?

Join us at Highlander Beer on Wednesday, May 26th.

We kindly ask that you please RSVP so we can give the brewery a heads up on how many people to expect.

Our beer runs are open to all runners and walkers. Run Wild Missoula membership is not required.

Questions? Please contact our Chancellor of Libations

Global Running Day • June 2nd

Join Run Wild Missoula & Runner's Edge on Wednesday, June 2nd at 6:00 PM to celebrate our running community. We will have 3-mile, 4-mile, and 5-mile route options available. After the run, meet back in the alley for socially distanced ice cream and beer! RSVP coming soon (so we have enough treats for everyone!)

Global Running Day is a worldwide celebration of running that encourages everyone to get moving. It doesn’t matter how fast you run or how far you go—what’s important is that you take part, and how you do it is up to you. Run a lap around your block, take your dog for a long walk, or call your friends for a pick-up game in the park. The important thing is that you have fun being active—and you inspire others to join you.

Run Wild Missoula membership is not required. Please, no dogs.

Mountain Running Film Festival • June 3rd

Montana Trail Crew invites you to come down to the Ogren Park & Allegiance Field for our annual party celebrating trails in Montana. Think a "Centerfield Cinema" style Mountain Running Film Festival! Join us for an outdoor evening of films that capture the lure and indescribable sensation of venturing deep into the wild.

This year's festival will take place on Thursday, June 4th.

Doors open at 6:00 PM
Films begin at 7:00 PM

Tickets will be on sale soon

Are you signed up for the Pengelly Double Dip or Bob Hayes Single Dip? Packet pick up will be available at the film festival (as well as on Friday).

Pengelly Double Dip & Bob Hayes Single Dip • June 5th

Ready to get back to trail running and racing? Look no further than the iconic Pengelly Double Dip and Bob Hayes Single Dip! The races will take place on Saturday, June 5, 2021. Limited spots are available in both events. All participants will receive a stellar pair of socks.

For more information & to register, click here.

RWM Club Miles

So far this year, we have collectively walked or ran 34,373 miles! Interested in logging your miles for 2021? We have a new system this year!

To sign up, go to the RWM club page on RunSignup and click on Mileage Club on the lefthand side. You will need to enter your information into the form and the platform should recognize you as a member if you have already claimed you RWM account. Once you have completed the sign up process, you can return to the Mileage Club page and submit your miles under the Results tab.

RWM Members who run or walk over 1200 or 2000 miles in one year will receive a Run Wild Missoula customized gift. Even if you didn't run or walk over 1200 miles, we still encourage you to post your miles! We love to see how much activity our club really does. Members must sign up for Mileage Club by June 30th, 2021 to be able to continue logging mileage.

Video: How to set up Mileage Club account & log miles

For more information about Mileage Club, click here.

If you have any questions, email Sally, sallyh@runwildmissoula.org