30th Annual Bolder Boulder -- But No Nordic Walking

Poles, dragons, strollers and other "outriggers" not permitted

When people have asked me why I haven't blogged about the Bolder Boulder, one of the nation's premier 10K road races that passes within a few blocks of my home (and which I have walked), I reply that I don't normally blog about events that exclude the Nordic Walking option. This Memorial Day (Monday, May 26) marks this landmark race's 30th anniversary, so I'm making a exception.

The Bolder Boulder is a one-note wonder -- one distance for world-class elite runners, citizen runners with qualifying times in previous events, other runners, joggers, jog/walkers, walkers and wheelchair competitors. It is organized in start waves, winds through the streets of Boulder and finishes in the University of Colorado's stadium. There are no shorter distances, fun runs or other ancillary events -- except for the traditional race expo and the Boulder Creek Festival that goes on throughout the long weekend.

Although the race excludes Nordic Walkers, dragons, strollers, baby joggers, cell phones, boom boxes (there's plenty of entertainment along the course), iPods, MP3 Players and other items considered distracting and/or dangerous, some 50,000 people are expected to participate. You can still register online or even on race day. Advance registration is $48-$58, depending on what kind of shirt you select. In-person registration at 29th Street offers additional options. Entrants 14 and under and 62 and older get $10 off. Race-day registrations are $5 more than the base.

I hope, someday, to post a blog item indicating that poles are permitted for all or most of the race. Meanwhile, happy 30th -- and good luck and great times to all who enter.