It was tough to hear last year when we officially got the word that the 2020 Missoula Marathon had been cancelled, thanks to COVID. Every year, the marathon is one of Missoula's biggest events, drawing in thousands from across the country and around the world. It was hard to believe that it wasn't going to happen.

Run Wild Missoula was able to pull off some virtual events in its place, though, and have done virtual events since then that have seen success. So the announcement that came through today isn't incredibly shocking: the 2021 Missoula Marathon will be an entirely virtual event.

Apparently, Run Wild Missoula had been working with the health department to try and figure out a physical, in-person event if possible, but it just wasn't meant to be. Because of the timing of vaccine distribution in Missoula and in all the other locations people would be traveling from, they feel that we won't be able to be safe if the event is actually held.

It's a bummer that we have to go two years without the physical marathon event taking place, which, even if you're not running, is just a blast to hang out and watch. I was at the finish line for the 2019 Missoula Marathon, and the energy there was so electric and exciting.

But the good news is, you can still register and run in the virtual 5K, the virtual half-marathon, the virtual marathon, and the virtual kids' marathon. And when you register, you'll get a custom Runner Box delivered to your door, an in-person pick-up option for local residents, AND discounted registration for 2022, which - fingers crossed - we'll be able to actually do in person.

You can find more info and register at the Missoula Marathon's website.

LOOK: Answers to 30 common COVID-19 vaccine questions

While much is still unknown about the coronavirus and the future, what is known is that the currently available vaccines have gone through all three trial phases and are safe and effective. It will be necessary for as many Americans as possible to be vaccinated in order to finally return to some level of pre-pandemic normalcy, and hopefully these 30 answers provided here will help readers get vaccinated as soon they are able.

More From 94.9 KYSS FM