- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: May 21, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
RECOGNIZING THE GLACIER RANGE RIDERS AND THEIR GROWING IMPACT ON THE
FLATHEAD VALLEY AND THE STATE OF MONTANA
HON. RYAN K. ZINKE
of montana
in the house of representatives
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Mr. ZINKE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Glacier Range Riders and their growing impact on the Flathead Valley and the State of Montana.
communities together through a shared love of competition and tradition. The Glacier Range Riders have brought professional baseball back to Northwest Montana since their founding in 2021. As members of the Pioneer League, an MLB Partner League, the Range Riders provide athletes with an opportunity to continue pursuing their dreams while giving Montana families the chance to experience professional baseball in their own backyard.
together to build a home for baseball in Northwest Montana. Through the vision and commitment of community leaders, Glacier Bank Park rose from an empty field into one of the best venues in the Pioneer League. This undertaking proved the desire of the local community to create opportunities for families, athletes, and visitors while investing in the future of the Flathead Valley.
The name “Range Riders” was chosen to reflect Montana's rich western heritage and pays tribute to the generations of ranchers, outdoorsmen, and pioneers who forged a life on the frontier. These men and women left a legacy of hard work and determination that remains woven into the fabric of our state and is carried on through the Range Riders.
history. The Glacier Range Riders' logo reflects the rich cultural heritage of Montana and pays homage to the Native American traditions that remain an important part of our state's identity. The arrowhead design honors the history of the region while serving as a symbol of strength, perseverance, and community. Like the game of baseball itself, the logo brings people together to celebrate Montana's history and create new memories for future generations.
place where families can gather, veterans can be honored, and lasting memories can be made. Each summer, friends and neighbors come together at the ballpark to enjoy America's pastime, celebrate their community, and share experiences that span generations. In an age when opportunities to bring people together are increasingly important, the Range Riders have created a venue that strengthens community ties and shows the very best of Montana. Throughout the summer months, thousands gather to watch the Range Riders, making a trip to the ballpark, another memorable part of the Flathead Valley experience.
meaningful impact on the local economy and community. The organization has helped attract visitors to Northwest Montana, supported local businesses, and created opportunities for young athletes to engage in the sport. The team's success demonstrates that professional sports can thrive in Montana while remaining closely connected to the people and communities they represent.
Mr. Speaker, the Glacier Range Riders represent more than wins and losses on a baseball field. They represent community, opportunity, and the enduring spirit of the American West. In just a few short years, they have become an important part of the Flathead Valley's identity and a source of pride for Montanans across our great state.