BolderBOULDER Facts

In an interview with Matt Jenkins, the Marking and PR coordinator for the BolderBOULDER race, he goes in debth about the interworkings of who takes part in the race, the type of training that is involved, and what to expect for next year.

Q: Does number of people that participate in the race grow each year or does it seem like the race becomes more popular?
A: Overall, our numbers grow every year (about 2.5% growth). On anniversary years (e.g. our 30th in 2008) we see a spike in registrations, and then it falls back a little the following year (like it did in 2009). It’s interesting that 30-40% of our field each year has never done the race before, so we have a loyal following and a lot of new faces each year.

Q: Were there any people that came from another country to participate in the race?
A: We had 97 people from out of the country this year. A lot of families and friends converge from around the country each year to meet and do the race together.

Q: Is there anything that is going to change about the BolderBOULDER next year?
A: We have no plans to change the course or schedule in 2010. We moved the International Team Challenge up so it would finish before the Memorial Day Tribute this year. It was so successful that we will do the same thing again in 2010.

Q: How long do people usually train for the race? What does it take to be a coach?
A: On average people start training specifically for our race about 2-3 months ahead of time. Our BoldRUNNING training club has a wide range of coaches, from top level runners to middle-of-the-pack athletes. They all share the same ability to motivate and teach others to improve their running.

Q: Are there any other races that are similar to the BolderBoulder in Colorado?
A: Nothing really comes close to the size or scope of the BolderBOULDER. We try to give a world class experience through the whole registration process, from start to finish, and in the stadium after the race.

Q: How have the profits earned from the race helped non-profit groups?
A: This year 60 non-profit groups used the race as a fundraiser and earned money based on the number of volunteers they brought to the race. We also donate to the CU scholarship fund and donate supplies and merchandise to other local events.

Q: Does the BolderBOULDER team change each year? Are there other events that are held during the year when the BolderBOULDER is not taking place that are headed by the same team?
A: We have a core group of four people that work for the race year round, and dozens of seasonal staff that work anywhere from a couple months to a couple days surrounding the race. We also put on these three race series events:

• Sombrero Trail Run in Estes Park on September 12
• ColderBOLDER Invitational 5K at CU on December 6
• DICK’S Sporting Goods Flat Out 5K at FlatIron Crossing in May

The BolderBOULDER is a race for all ages and from people all over the world. There are hundreds of volunteers, racers, organizations and supporters of the race that look forward it every single year. This event is for multiple great causes, and is a fun way to get exercise at the same time so why not give it a try in 2010.