On Saturday, September 27, the Nebraska panhandle came alive with the pounding of feet and cheers of spectators as the Monument Marathon unfolded in Scottsbluff. This annual event, drawing hundreds of participants across its full marathon, half-marathon, 5K, and relay categories, celebrated endurance, community, and the rugged beauty of the High Plains.
Among the standout performers were a dedicated group of runners hailing from Bayard, Bridgeport, and Gurley— small towns that punched well above their weight in grit and determination. From agegroup podium finishes to solid mid-pack efforts, these local athletes exemplified the spirit of the race, pushing through 26.2 miles of challenging terrain or shorter sprints along historic routes.
Marathon Mastery: Tackling the Full 26.2 The full marathon tested the limits of even the most seasoned runners, with 124 finishers navigating the challenges of the course. Leading the charge from these communities was Justin Koke of Bayard, a 36-year-old male who crossed the line in 4:16:52, securing 38th overall and 13th in the 3039 men’s division at a steady 9:48 per mile pace. Not far behind, Amber Dean, 35, from Bridgeport, clocked 4:18:39 for 40th place overall and a strong 8th in the 30-39 women’s group, maintaining a 9:51 pace. Her Bridgeport neighbor, 44-year-old Erin Reynolds, followed closely at 4:18:42 (41st overall, 5th in 40-49 women, 9:51 pace), showcasing the depth of local talent in the women’s field.
