The Bolder Life: It’s a Runner’s World

Coloradans are pretty active folks. We love to cycle and mountain bike. We love workouts like yoga and tai chi. We hike on our lunch breaks and hit the Crossfit gym after work. But above all, the people of Colorado are runners. We eat 5K’s for breakfast and run marathons at 5200 feet above sea level for dessert. For obvious reasons, the summer months typically offer the most opportunities to strap a number to your favorite running gear items, and compete against other like-minded people with bulging calves, however—some of the most popular 5K’s in the Boulder County area happen in the Fall and Winter months. This might have something to do with the number of candy/food/all-around-indulging holidays that occur during these season, but it may also be the fact that race organizers know that whether it’s raining, shining or snowing, the people of Colorado will still lace up the their Nike’s and their New Balance shoes and hit the road running. While you missed the popular Devil Dash 5K in Lyons last weekend, here’s a list of other upcoming 5K’s in Boulder County this October– and stayed tuned next month for another complete list of 5K’s happening in the area in the month of November.

Kaiser Permanente Run the ‘Rocks
When: Sunday, October 16, 2011 | 9:30 a.m.
Where: Morrison, CO | Red Rocks Amphitheater
The Skinny: This race starts in the Upper North Lot and weaves its way through the beautiful, rugged terrain surrounding the popular music venue. Eventually, the race course will take runners up the legendary amphitheater stairs, and will be rewarded for finishing the race with some live music. All entry fee proceeds will be donated to the American Lung Association.

Shake, Rattle and Run
When: Saturday, October 22, 2011 | 8:00 a.m.
Where: Westminster, CO | The Orchard Town Center
The Skinny: This qualifying race will take you on a scenic tour along the Orchard Town center off of I-25 in Westminster. The Shake, Rattle and Run 5K is a benefite to support the St. Anthony North Health Foundation’s Hospital Support Fund Program with 100% of the registration fees benefiting St. Anthony North Hospital.

Eerie Erie 5K/10K & Goblin Run
When: Saturday, October 30, 2011 | 9:30 a.m.
Where: Erie, CO | Erie High School
The Skinny: Run the Eerie Erie 5K or 10K and burn off enough calories to feel less guilty about eating your fair share of Halloween treats the next day. This route begins at the Erie High School and will take you on a spooky tour of Old Town Erie including a trip past the historic Erie Cemetery.

Monster Dash 5K & Kid Race
When: Saturday, October 29, 2011 | 3:00 p.m.
Where: Louisville, CO | Old Town
The Skinny: Old Town Louisville is definitely making a name for itself as the hot place to be for everything from Famers’ Markets, to live music, to first class eateries and unique, local shopping. If you haven’t paid a visit to this updated area of Louisville, then you’ll have your chance when you run the 2nd Annual Monster Dash on October 29th. Participants are encouraged to come in costume and bring along their little ghouls and goblins for the Spooky Sprint that will guarantee them a participant ribbon, a glow bracelet and other special gifts!