Going the extra mile for the YMCA

The Bozeman Running Company’s Marathon weekend attracted both avid and casual runners from every corner of the nation in what promised to be an exciting two-day event running from Saturday, Sept. 11, to Sunday, Sept. 12. For those who wanted to participate but found themselves daunted by the grueling full and half marathon distances, the Gallatin Valley YMCA 5K provided a more mild experience. Those who lined up at the starting line for this 3.1 mile race were running for something a little bit larger, as all the event’s proceeds benefited the YMCA. 

“We’re super grateful for the Bozeman Running Company,” said Meghan Cosgrove, Philanthropy and Events Manager at the YMCA. “We’ve been doing this for a couple years now, where they’ll help us put on the 5K during the marathon weekend.” 

Cosgrove indicated the YMCA’s financial aid program as the primary beneficiary of any funds received from the race. The program provides assistance to those unable to afford the services the YMCA offers, including memberships, summer camps, child care and more. 

“We want to be able to provide assistance to adults, children, family and anyone else who is in need,” Cosgrove said. “We never turn anyone away for the inability to pay.” 

Cosgrove made it clear that volunteers play an important role within the YMCA and is always appreciative of anyone who can lend their time. “From youth sports to our fitness facilities to our special events, we have plenty of volunteer opportunities. “Anyone can come in to volunteer,” she said. The YMCA also accepts donations and sponsorships.

“A lot of people don’t realize the YMCA is a non-profit. We’re more than just a gym,” Cosgrove said. “We do a lot of community outreach, part of being a non-profit is serving people in the Gallatin Valley.”

Mason Watamura from Tacaoma, Washington finished first place in the 5K with a time of 17:11:08. Coming in second was Kevin McCall from Bozeman and Jourdan Lipp from Belgrade took third. More information regarding the organization’s programs can be found at the Gallatin Valley YMCA’s websitehttps://www.gallatinvalleyymca.org.