4 events in Missoula, Montana

Join us for the Run for Rare, an event to raise awareness and support for individuals affected by rare diseases. Over 7,000 rare diseases have been identified worldwide and people with rare disease represent 5% of the worlds population.

T-shirt/Bib Pick Up: Friday, July 17th from 5:30pm-7pm at the Bitterroot Shelter in Fort Missoula

Event Highlights:

• A timed 5K route open to runners and walkers of all fitness and ability levels

• A fun 1 mile route suitable for walking, rolling, or running for those who do not wish to participate in the 5k

• Pre and post-race activities with music, refreshments, and prizes

• Food Trucks

• Family Friendly

• Children under the age of 18 participate for free

• Every registered participant 18+ receives a FREE event shirt as part of their registration. Shirt sizes are available in limited quantities and will be prioritized for participants who register before June 15th, so don’t wait to register!

• Raffle

• Local businesses and healthcare providers on site to answer questions and connect families to trusted resources (no need to register if you are not participating in the run)

• A chance to support ongoing awareness and advocacy efforts of the ARK Foundation

The race starting point is at the Bitterroot Shelter near the pickle ball fields at Fort Missoula.

Preview the 5K route here: https://www.strava.com/routes/3320886051403139206

Preview the 1 mile route here: https://www.strava.com/routes/3458892683425389650

In the spirit of raising awareness, we encourage participants to add a touch of zebra-themed flair to their outfits if they’d like—symbolizing the uniqueness of rare diseases. Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps us create a future of understanding, hope, and support to families facing the unimaginable in Western Montana.

All proceeds go to The ARK Foundation, a local 501c3 foundation dedicated to helping tough kids and their families. Our mission is to provide financial support and advocacy for families of children living with rare, complex, or chronic medical conditions. We strive to enhance their quality of life and foster hope through awareness and collaboration. Learn more at www.ark-foundation.org

The ZOOTOWN CHALLENGE OBSTACLE COURSE RACES @ WASHINGTON-GRIZZLY STADIUM features SEVEN different race categories. Everyone can race and challenge themselves, from Expert, Novice, STRONG, Kids and All Ability races, pick one and start training. The ZooTown Challenge takes place on September 26, 2026 in beautiful Missoula, Montana, at the iconic Washington Grizzly Stadium. You will feel the crowd roar!

• ZooTown Challenge 5k - 20 Obstacles

• Griz Double 10k - 35 Obstacles

• ZooTown STRONG NO M TRAIL: Fast and STRONG

• ZooTown 3k

• Kids Race

• All Abilities Race

The ZooTown Challenge is for individuals wanting a challenge as well as the novice racer. YOU WILL FINISH - How fast is up to you. The combination of challenging obstacles and skill obstacles sets the stage for the ZooTown Challenge to be an EPIC RACE in Missoula, Montana.

Want to run as a team? Go to the TEAMS tab. Your final finish time will be the combined time of all four racers.

SPECTATORS WELCOME - Food trucks will be open for racers and spectators to enjoy the race at the North End Zone.

The race course encompasses Washington-Grizzly Stadium, U of M Campus and some surprises.

DETAILS on the ZooTown Challenge Website and Instagram @zootownchallenge

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - Want to check out the race close up and encourage racers? Go to zootownchallenge.com and go to the volunteer tab to sign up. All Volunteers receive food vouchers on race day and free entry to next year's ZooTown Challenge race.

ZOOTOWN CHALLENGE RACE PROCEEDS DONATED TO OPPORTUNITY RESOURCES INC.*

*Opportunity Resources Inc. is a Missoula-based organization that focuses on providing people with disabilities opportunities to engage in meaningful employment, artistic and creative projects, stable housing, and community involvement.