Homecoming Hustle returns in 2023

One of the most popular Homecoming traditions at the University of Montana is back in 2023. The Homecoming Hustle will make its return after a three-year hiatus. The race will start at 9:55 a.m. on Saturday morning at the corner of Higgins and Broadway.

The race will proceed along the parade route, with a run through Washington-Grizzly Stadium included and a finish on the scenic Oval.

Head Cross Country and Track & Field Coach Doug Fraley heard loud and clear that this is an event that the community has missed.

"We're really excited to bring it back because I've heard from so many people since I was hired here that were inquiring on whether or not the Homecoming Hustle would come back because they've enjoyed it so much," Fraley said. "It's been a big part of the Homecoming parade and things like that in the past that we decided to bring it back for the first time since before COVID."

The event will serve as a fundraiser for the Montana track & field and cross country programs. The proceeds will all go to the program, benefitting Montana's scholarships, operations, and equipment.

It is also a positive way for the athletes to be involved with the community. The Grizzly staff and athletes will all help organize the event.

It is $40 for the 5K race, or $20 if you are a UM student. Registration will continue until the morning of the event, where you can sign up from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Runner's Edge. Interested runners can also sign up HERE, and donations are also accepted for those that cannot attend the race.

"We're excited to involve the community with our cross country and track & field programs," Fraley said. "We're using this as our fall fundraiser, so we are just real excited to join up with Run Wild Missoula and the running community here which is so vibrant, and to be able to use it as a benefit that will directly effect our programs and our budgets and our ability to conduct ourselves in a Division-I manner."

The Grizzly cross country team will host the Big Sky Championships in Missoula on Oct. 27. The meet will feature three nationally ranked teams and multiple All-American runners in a highly competitive field.

University of Montana Athletics

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