Bolder Boulder May 25: Run for all is fun for all
If you enjoy being active in the fresh spring air, come walk, run or wheel your way out May 25 to the Bolder Boulder: a world-class 10K road race almost as fun to watch as it is to participate in.
The Bolder Boulder is one of the largest timed road races in the world — 50,000 to 100,000 are expected — but remarkably there's still a place in it for everyone.
The race opens Boulder's streets to those of varying speeds and ages on Memorial Day. Participants start the race in different waves, so whether you're a competitive runner or just a weekend warrior out for the day with your 5-year-old, you can enjoy running through the cheering crowds at your own pace.
If you're a current or former member of the Armed Forces, be sure to check out one of the three starting waves that organizers have dedicated to you. The Boulder Bolder also holds a professional wheelchair competition — truly inspiring to watch.
Even if you don't participate, it's worth going just to watch the world-class athletes who the Bolder Boulder attracts in the elite division — and to share in the fun. Watch residents spray down the streams of runners, or pick up a hose yourself. The race has music at intervals, and there's nothing quite like cheering on your panting, sweaty friends from the sideline.
Need to get into the Memorial Day spirit? Stick around Folsom Field after the race for the 11:40 a.m. tribute: a 21-gun salute in recognition of the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. There will also be a fly-over by four U.S. military jets.
The Bolder Boulder is accessible for almost everyone in your family, but leave your canine friends at home; they're not allowed. Athough the race doesn't allow strollers or joggers, babies are welcome to ride in a back-pack for free.
The race starts at 30th and Iris, and passes through some of Boulder's most picturesque neighborhoods before ending in the University of Colorado's Folsom Field. Entry fees range from $42 to $88, depending on your package choice, with discounts for children, seniors and active members of the military.
With nearly 100,000 participants, saying that parking is difficult is an understatement. But Denver's Regional Transportation District (RTD) will have free RunRide shuttle buses leaving from various Denver and Boulder locations.
If you must drive yourself, you can park at the finish live, CU, for $20. For more information on the RunRide shuttles, CU parking or some free — if distant — parking options, click here.
- by David Zindell, Denver Reporter for HelloMetro
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