Sarah WallockYear 3 of Bolder Boulder, I wanted to try a different approach that included my passion for high-altitude running, fitness, friends and fun. What race do you know of that’s a political protest, Memorial Day tribute, bellydance extravaganza, local business showcase, and slip-n-slide party? That’d be Bolder Boulder! And the event is even sponsored by my fave local running shop, Runner’s Roost.
In 2023, my first year, I ran the 10k as a challenge. It was a way to integrate into my community and a way to connect with a new friend. What I discovered was that this little jaunt in my backyard was more of a community pilgrimage and less of a regular “race.” Far from competitive, Bolder Boulder felt communal and inclusive.
In 2025, my second year, we sauntered over with a 1-mile walk to the starting line, near Yoga Pod. It was raining and freezing. It was my husband’s first time and boy was I excited for him to witness the spectacle. We ran in a mid-morning starting wave assigned through his workplace free entries, with many memories of our old neighborhood in North Boulder and finished in around 1 hour.
Ultimately, this year, I wanted to submit a qualifying time, not because I take the race very seriously, but so I could see my friends and partake in festivities and afterparties following the race. I would highly recommend submitting a qualifying time from Strava or another race. This way, if you plan to run or jog, you’ll be surrounded by a similar group vs a slowly walking parade through town! If you’re wanting to walk, no need to submit a qualifying time.
What to Wear and Bring
- Sports bra
- Sunscreen
- Your bib – you can start in your wave or afterwards
- Running shorts
- Shoes
- Fun costume of your choosing( you can always stop to grab an accessory from a neighbor or get body paint)
- Phone for photos (or if you need to call your friends after getting lost in the sea of people and excitement!)
How to Get There/Where to Park
I highly recommend riding your bike or walking to the start. But if you’re unable to do so, public transport like RTD are your next best options. If you have a car you need to drop somewhere, I’d say park far from the start, bring the bike in the car and lock the bike nearby.
What’s Your Bolder Boulder Style?
Race it? Jog it? Dress as or the Flintsones or Mario and Luigi with friends? Perform, volunteer, or spectate? Any option you choose, you’ll be sure to have a blast.
Accessibility at Bolder Boulder
This race has experiences for all types of people. While running brands have recently received press emphasizing their elitist and exclusive attitudes, it was a joy and pleasure to see so many disabled athletes and pros at Bolder Boulder. Many people from all walks of life ran, walked, jogged, and danced alongside each other. From guide runners and disabled athletes to a welcoming community and a diversity of spaces to tuck away mid-race for neurodivergent folks.
I was pretty disturbed by the “Runners welcome, walkers tolerated” sign from Nike at the Boston marathoned linked above. They replaced the sign with “Boston will always remind, movement is what matters.” But when it comes to Bolder Boulder, I’ve never seen any overt acts of discrimination or athletic elitism. I’m so proud this is an event in my backyard.
Fortunately or unfortunately, I am surrounded by a lot of professional athletes and well that is inspiring and encouraging in this little, mighty city, it can also lead to unchecked versions of reality with the marketing of endurance sports products and partnerships with global brands.
Bigger and Better?
Over the years, Bolder Boulder has expanded massively. With 53,801 runners this year (they sold out) and nearly 100,000 spectators, our community really comes out in force. With the increase of runners, traffic and tourism, comes its complications. Luckily, I was able to walk 1-mile to the start line for my race, but with free bus rides, the city does the most they can to smooth out the crowding.
See You Next Year!
Some locals make it a habit to stick around every Memorial day for the race festivities and parties. Others are nowhere to be found. Bolder Boulder has a life-long fan in me. I’m grateful to be in a safe space full of people across the political spectrum, veterans, pros, disabled athletes, families, tourists and my town. See you next year, BB!
