Queer Run Missoula Building community through running

Queer Run Missoula Building community through running

MISSOULA – Earlier this year, the Missoula Running Club started with a mission to create a safe space for queer runners to build community while exercising.

MTN has contacted organizer Alec Cottrell to find out how the family got to the site. “Sometimes it’s not always easy to be fun and we struggle whether it’s with family or friends,” she shared.

For Cottrell, an ultra runner, moving to Missoula three years ago sparked an idea. “Somehow we didn’t have a place where runners or runners could gather and mingle and run and get to know each other and just socialize,” he recalled.

Alec Cottrell

Emily Brown/MTN News

“We don’t have to pretend to be someone we’re not. We can only be ourselves.” – Alec Cottrell

So she partnered with Run Wild Missoula – committed to creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ runners.

“There’s a five-mile loop and a three-mile loop,” Cottrell said, describing the distances of the city’s runs. He noted that everyone can participate regardless of age and speed.

Queer Run Missoula meets the second Tuesday of every month to build community and resilience in running.

“I didn’t like the very large, exclusive community in Missoula, and that was integral to making it happen. Likewise, (those who ran) were my friends,” shared participant Grace Stavich.

Grace Stavich

Emily Brown/MTN News

“I thought it was pretty cool.” – Grace Stavich’s time with Queer Run Missoula

Stavich explained to the group that he returns each month for an environment that is more inclusive than running. “I come here mainly for the social aspect of it and less for the running and really everyone can enjoy it here,” he said.

After the workout, Run Wild provides a free drink as a cool-down and allows people to slow down and chat. “It’s really cute, it feels good to not (have to) be the topic of conversation and have an open space for all of us,” Stavich said.

In addition, the group volunteers their time at Run Wild Missoula events around Missoula. “There are a lot of people who volunteer at the aid station at the Missoula Marathon,” Cottrell said. He continued, “We’re not just part of this group, we’re part of the community. We as a queer community can represent the queer community.”

The next run is November 12, 2024 at 6:00 PM at Bayern Brewing.



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