It’s time once again to lace up the running shoes, load up on the those carbs, and hit the streets for Colorado’s preeminent road race, the 43rd annual BolderBoulder. The signature event will take place on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29.
More than 40,000 participants from all over the world are expected to take part in this year’s race, which consists of a 6.2 mile course through the streets of Boulder and finishes at Folsom Field.
“CU Boulder is excited to partner with the BolderBoulder once again for this one-of-a-kind community event,” said CU Boulder Chancellor Phil DiStefano. “Nothing beats the Folsom Field finish line, and the Memorial Day tribute is a spectacle to behold. We’re proud to welcome the race finishers, community members and supporters who make the BolderBoulder the wonderful tradition that it is.”
Memorial Day tribute
After the race, runners and spectators alike will be able to watch the annual Memorial Day tribute, which honors those who paid the ultimate sacrifice defending America’s freedom while recognizing the men and women who have served and are serving in the armed forces. The tribute will include a 21-gun salute, Colorado’s largest mass enlistment ceremony, skydivers, a military flyover and more.
Road closures and other impacts
With so much activity and so many taking part in the fun, there will be significant traffic and other impacts that can be expected throughout the day.
All participants are strongly encouraged to carpool, as parking will be limited, but permits are available for purchase through CU Boulder Parking Services.
Parking permits are available for East Campus near the starting line and Main Campus near the finish line. Purchase online for $25. There are also two runner drop-off areas near the start on Arapahoe Avenue and on 28th Street. There is also bike storage available. Download the BolderBoulder parking map (PDF).
Traffic is expected to be very heavy coming into Boulder, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time if you’re driving in from elsewhere. The first wave of runners will start at 6:55 a.m., followed by the women’s professional race at 11:11 a.m., the men’s professional race at 11:22 a.m. and the Memorial Day tribute at approximately noon. Traffic is similarly expected to be heavy up to 45 minutes after the tribute concludes.
The BolderBoulder is very much a community event, with runners being cheered on throughout the race as they wind through the streets of Boulder (PDF). As a result, a number of streets will be closed on race day beginning at 3 a.m. All streets will be reopened at approximately 1 p.m.
Register to attend
The best part is it’s not too late to register and be a part of the fun! Registration is available online and in person, Sign up between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. May 27 and May 28 at Pearl Street Mall or in the start area at 5:30 a.m. on race day.
Whether it’s your first time or your 43rd, running in the BolderBoulder is one of Colorado’s great Memorial Day traditions.
