Run, Jefferson, Run: Marathon returns after year off

This year, you can run the Governor’s Cup Marathon in your backyard even if you don’t live in Montana. After canceling last year’s race due to the coronavirus, this year’s event can be run virtually as well as in person.

The series of races sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield includes a marathon, half-marathon, 10K (virtual only) and 5K from June 11–12. It is also part of the Treasure State Trifecta, which is a “grand prix style race series” of half-marathons that includes the Governor’s Cup as well as the Missoula and Bozeman half-marathons.

The Governor’s Cup, which is the oldest marathon in Montana, was run in the Helena area from 1976–2009, with a short stint in Billings before returning home in 2013. It is also a USA Track & Field certified course, which makes it a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon.