Just say the words "Bolder Boulder" to a Boulder local, and then brace yourself for the litany of stories, facts and advice about participating in this epic 10k race.
You might hear, "Be sure to stop by the bacon house!" or "There are house parties all along the path, so keep an eye out!" or even "If you're coming from sea level, prepare yourself for some pain!"
As if the Bolder Boulder's motto – "Sea level is for sissies!" – doesn't say enough, this race is run more than one mile above sea level and, if you're coming from lower elevations, you will be reminded of this fact with every lung-shattering stride.
Held every Memorial Day, this race is worth it, and here's why!
The starting line at Bolder Boulder — Photo courtesy of Bolder Boulder
Bacon House, Beer and Babes
As you'll recall, we mentioned bacon. For nearly 10 years, a Boulder local by the name of Lonny Frye has been diligently and deliciously cooking up pound after pound of bacon for the BB runs. His house sits along the path and, as the waves of runners dash by, Frye - accompanied by his friends and family - hands out strips of pure bacon goodness.
Beer is another staple of the Bolder Boulder, since the town of Boulder has one of the highest concentrations of microbreweries in the state. Often, your entry fee buys you lunch and two "free" beers, which are much needed after 6.2 miles of running in the hot, Colorado sun.
As for the babes, we're talking some of the most physically fit men and women you've ever seen in your life. Professional athletes from all over the world come in droves to reap the benefits of training and racing at altitude.
But it's not just the pros who look great. Boulderites are notorious for being fit and fabulous. Not to mention, there's a plethora of belly dancers, Irish Step Dancers and, yes, even the occasional (and fully clothed) pole dancer on the route.
Folsom Field, where the race ends — Photo courtesy of Sean Quinn / Bolder Boulder
Praise, Honor and Glory
After it's all said and done, you'll arrive at the finish line soaking wet with sweat. You'll be greeted by thousands of cheering and exhausted participants at Folsom Field, University of Colorado's stadium.
After crossing the finish line, you can grab that much needed lunch and a beer, too. Not to mention, if you walked to the starting line, you were probably greeted by several breweries offering you stickers or a token for a free beer if you wear your race number.
Not a bad deal, eh?
To sign up, check the Bolder Boulder website for details.
