St. Patrick inspires spring running events

Published: February 21, 2011

St. Patrick’s Day supplies the inspiration for several runs around the state, beginning March 12 with the St. Patrick’s Day Dash in Great Falls.

The University of Great Falls’ cross country/track team sponsors this two- and four-mile fun run along the River’s Edge Trail and Giant Springs State Park, with prizes for top finishers in men’s and women’s categories.

Runners depart at 10:30 a.m. from the Heritage State Park Picnic Area. Entry fee is $20 before March 7, or $25 after; call 791-5928 or visit www.ugf.edu for details.

Other races honoring Ireland’s patron saint:

Anaconda: LockerRoom Bar hosts the 30th annual St. Patrick’s Race at 10 a.m. March 12. The three- or six-mile race follows a fast downhill course. Cost is $12 for pre-registration and $15 the day of the race, and buses transport runners from the bar to the starting line. Call 560-0171 for details.

Bozeman: 10k and half-marathon runners from all over Montana and the region participate in the Run to the Pub, 10:30 a.m. March 12 at Pub 317 in the Bozeman Hotel. Call 587-1333 or visit www.pub317.com for details.

Butte: Register at noon March 13 for the annual Duggan Dolan Blarney Stone Fun Run, which sets the stage for St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Butte. The 5k run/walk and kids’ races begin at the Knights of Columbus Hall; the Gathering of the Clans follows, with entertainment and children’s activities. Call 723-3239 for details.

Billings: The Shamrock Run departs at 1 p.m. March 13 from Pioneer Park. The race includes a 5k run on 3rd Street West and Avenue B, followed by a one-mile kids' run on sidewalks in and around Pioneer Park. Registration is $5-$20; call 855-1069 or visit www.rimrunners.org for details.

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