Faces of Boulder: About to Make a Splash at the Bolder Boulder

It’s the moment right before chaos and cool collide—suspended in midair, muscles flexed, eyes on the prize: a sparkling blue backyard pool. This epic image captures a runner during the Bolder Boulder, just seconds before takeoff into pure joy.

Each year, Boulder transforms into a high-energy playground on Memorial Day for the Bolder Boulder 10K, one of the largest and most spirited road races in the world. More than 50,000 runners and walkers take to the streets while over 100,000 fans line the route, making it feel more like a festival than a footrace.

But the magic isn’t just in the numbers—it’s in the unexpected. Along the 6.2-mile course, you’ll find live music, dance crews, slip-n-slides, bacon stations, beer tents, and neighborhood pools—all waiting to turn your run into a wild adventure.

This photo showcases one of the best-kept traditions of the Bolder Boulder: the airborne daredevils who answer the call of an open pool with fearless enthusiasm. The runner here is still dry—but not for long. With perfect form and a smile that says “this is what Boulder’s all about,” they’re about to cannonball their way into race-day legend.

Fun Fact:
The first Bolder Boulder took place in 1979 with just over 2,700 runners. Today, it ranks among the top 10 largest races in the U.S. and finishes dramatically in Folsom Field, where spectators roar for everyone—from elite athletes to tutu-wearing walkers.

The Bolder Boulder isn’t just about finishing fast—it’s about having fun, making memories, and celebrating community. Whether you’re running for time, for tribute, or for the sheer thrill of pool-jumping midway through, there’s something in it for everyone.

Because here in Boulder, even race day comes with a splash of the unexpected.

And sometimes, that splash hasn’t even hit the water—yet.

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