By Western Nebraska Community College
SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. - Planning has begun for the 15th annual Platte Valley Companies Monument Marathon, scheduled for September 26. The race will have a full marathon, half marathon and 5K run/walk.
The Platte Valley Companies Monument Marathon is the largest annual fundraiser for the Western Nebraska Community College Foundation, which supports students, programs and facilities at WNCC. The 2025 race set multiple new records, with 669 registered runners, the men’s and women’s full marathon course records both broken and $81,390 raised, the highest single-year total in event history. These results brought the marathon’s lifetime total to $717,598 raised since 2012, with 100% of proceeds staying in the Nebraska Panhandle to support students.
"The continuing success is made possible by the generosity of Platte Valley Companies, and their CEO, Hod Kosman, " Jennifer Reisig, Race Director and WNCC Foundation Executive Director said. "We are so grateful to them for their support for the 15th year in a row.”
Reisig also emphasized the broader community impact of the race’s growth.
“The record participation in 2025 brought runners, friends and families from across the country to Scotts Bluff County,” she said. “Most stay at least one night, creating a meaningful economic impact while providing more scholarship support for our students.”
"It's a pleasure and an honor for us to be a sponsor of an event that is so well run and does so much great things for our region," Kosman said.
WNCC Foundation staff shared insight into the year‑round coordination required to host an event of this scale. The Monument Marathon relies on nearly 300 volunteers, making volunteer leadership a critical component of race success.This year marks a transition in the Foundation’s Development Director and Marathon Volunteer Coordinator role. Alena Haun is departing after seven successful years, and Brandon Davenport – a Scottsbluff High School and WNCC alumnus – is returning to the area and stepping in to this role.
"I'm very excited to be here, I can't wait to get into the thick of things," Davenmport said. "I've got big shoes to fill with Alena leaving, but I'm very happy to be here and I'm excited to work with our volunteers."
Looking ahead to the 2026 Monument Marathon, registrations are already trending ahead of pace compared to this time last year and organizers report increased support from sponsors and grant funders.
“With the momentum we’re seeing early, we’re optimistic about continuing this tradition of growth while staying focused on our purpose—supporting WNCC students and showcasing the beauty of the Panhandle,” Reisig said.
Registration information, FAQs and details about becoming a sponsor or volunteer can be found at www.monumentmarathon.com, by calling 308-630-6550 or emailing racedirector@wncc.edu.