Montana State University-Northern Head Cross Country Coach Deborah Callahan announced the signing of River Racine to join the Cross Country and Distance Track program this fall.

"I am excited that River is bringing his talent and leadership to MSU-Northern and joining our running program. "Said Coach Callahan. "His drive to succeed is impeccable! This young man wants to do his best in the classroom as well on the XC and Track courses." "We are excited to be part of his academic and athletic career." 

River, from Browning, Montana, excels in both Cross Country and Track. His personal best for the 5000M is 16.17, with a current ranking of 6^th. On the track, his times continued to improve across multiple distances, including 54.55 in the 400M, 1.58 in the 800M, 4.26 in the 1600M and 9.51 in the 3200M. His athletic performance was key to Browning's achievements: 2^nd place finish at the Western a Fall Classic for both 2025 and 2024. 3^rd place finish at the 2024 and a 1^st place finish in 2023 at the Class A Cross Country.

In four years, River received All-Conference and Academic All-State Honors with a 3.9 GPA for every sport, broke Browning's 5000M Cross Country record, and maintained Honor Student status through strong academic discipline.

"Through his high school career River led with integrity, competed with heart, and balanced the demands of being a dedicated student and a great athlete." states Roy McMabb, Browning High School Cross Country Coach. "MSU Northern is not just gaining a strong runner, they are gaining a leader, a teammate and a young that will represent the program well." 

"His dedication to his running, combined with his natural ability and relentless work ethic, has set him apart as an elite competitor in both cross country and track" state Kellen Hall, AD for Browning High School. "He plays a vital role in motivating his teammates, encouraging them to train harder, pushing their limits and competing with confidence.

River is the son of Richard and Lindy Racine. "Running has provided many opportunities for him and for that we are grateful." states Richard. "What I want everyone to know about River is that he is dedicated and disciplined; and very thoughtful and kind individual."

River plans to major in Integrated Health Science as he has an interest in health and exercise. When asked about why he chose Northern, he replied "Because of the size of the school". Coach Callahan states "We look forward to his contribution to the team and watching him grow here at Northern!"