SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. - Planning has begun for the 12th annual Platte Valley Companies Monument Marathon, scheduled for Sept. 30. The race will again have a full marathon, half marathon, 5K run/walk, and a three-person half-marathon relay. 

The Platte Valley Companies Monument Marathon is the largest annual fundraiser for the Western Nebraska Community College Foundation which supports students, programs, and facilities at WNCC. Last year the marathon celebrated its 11th year as a premier event in Scotts Bluff County, drawing runners to the area from around the country. The 2022 Monument Marathon raised $53,308 dollars toward student success, bringing the total funds raised to $510,285 since the marathon's inception.

"Each year we provide runners with a beautiful, well supported, and unique experience at this race," Jennifer Reisig, race director and WNCC Foundation executive director said. "Thanks to our runners, volunteers, and sponsors, for the continued support of student success at WNCC. None of this would be possible without the generosity of Platte Valley Companies, and their founder and CEO, Hod Kosman. For the 12th year in a row, thank you for the title sponsorship."

The Monument Marathon is undergoing a new 10-year course certification this year through USA Track & Field, that allows runners to qualify for highly selective races such as the Boston Marathon. During the recertification process, marathon organizers, leadership teams, city and county officials, and participants were able to identify some areas to alter the route of both the full and half-marathon routes to improve the experience for both runners and race personnel

"We identified a few changes that could make the Monument Marathon full and half-marathon courses even better," Reisig said. "I’m most excited about the chance for full marathon runners to turn off D Street and run past the Gering Greenhouse, Dome Rock Diamonds, and the Pioneers baseball field. This highlights an area of Gering that is nicely developed and a showpiece to those visiting our communities. All the changes help us better support our runners.”

Three panelists spoke about their experiences and their excitement about the new course at the Monument Marathon Press Conference, Wednesday, May 31.

"I love the Monument Marathon. The course is incredible, and the views are amazing," Amy Seiler, director of parks, recreation, and leisure services for the City of Gering said. "I get no greater joy than cheering on those waves of people that are trying to power up that hill [Country Club Road]. I love the course changes you are making. I love that the course is now going through the area around the City of Gering where we have our ball fields. This is an event that benefits our community greatly.”

Brady Shaul, owner of Shaul Designs and the Director of Facilities Management at Regional West Medical Center said he is excited to run the race again this year with the new routes planned.

"The views, the way it's been planned out, the course itself - it is an awesome experience," Shaul said.

Last year's marathon included 554 registered runners from 33 states. There are already over 130 registered runners from five countries and 23 states for the 2023 race.

"The Monument Marathon is something I encourage everyone to do at least once, just get out there, get out of your comfort zone," Stacy Ring, who has participated in all 12 Monument Marathons said. "It’s a great event, it’s put on by great people, and it’s for a great cause. The course is challenging, scenic, beautiful, and worth every moment out there no matter what distance you do."

Registration information, FAQs, and details about becoming a sponsor or volunteer can be found at www.monumentmarathon.com, calling 308-630-6550 or emailing racedirector@wncc.edu.