Each spring, our city looks forward to one of the largest 10ks in the country, hosted right here in our scenic backyard. The BolderBOULDER is a community foot race that draws crowds topping 50,000. Its friendly and lively atmosphere encourages participants and viewers to mix, mingle, and enjoy Memorial Day weekend. Its chillier counterpart, the ColderBoulder, takes place during Colorado’s shift from fall to winter, and also inspires runners of all skill levels to come out for the fun, despite dipping temperatures. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting December race.
About the Race
The ColderBoulder 10k takes place snow or shine. Each year, racers turn out in droves, costumed in furry onesies, Santa suits, and even pajamas, as if to taunt Colorado’s unpredictable weather patterns.
This December race is a bit different than its spring counterpart in that it is comprised of 14 heats, with the first 13 open only to May’s BolderBOULDER participants. Each heat groups runners based on their BolderBOULDER finish times, giving each the chance to win a first, second, or third “cold medal”. This allows 84 people to place, earning eternal fame and glory – or at least until the snow melts.
The 14th race invites runners, walkers, and joggers of all skill levels to sweat with the community, regardless of their participation in the spring race. This open-call foot race encourages local residents to stay fit, even when the temperature drops.
When and Where
The 2019 ColderBoulder takes place on 12/7 with the first heat kicking off at 7:45 am. Subsequent heats start just five minutes after the preceding one and the open race begins promptly at 9:50 am. The starting line is positioned on Colorado Ave, just outside Folsom Field.
A Race to Remember
The expression “misery loves company” finds no stronger foothold than with runners traipsing in costume through cold, wet, and snowy conditions. Experience a 10k that is unlike any other, and make lasting connections along the way, toughing it out and soldiering on. Joy is abundant, beer flows just beyond the finish lines, and racers are spirited, inspired, and grateful just to be outside in our gorgeous mountain city.
The ColderBoulder is probably our city’s second-most anticipated race of the year. Boulder balloons with spectators, racers, and vendors, lining up to embrace the shifting seasons and our town’s notoriously healthy lifestyle. Chase away the winter blues with this chilly 10k.