Every Memorial Day, the streets of Boulder pulse with energy as tens of thousands lace up for the Bolder Boulder, one of America’s largest and most iconic 10K road races. The spectacle is undeniable — costumed runners, live bands, cheering crowds, and a finish line in Folsom Field that feels like a victory lap for the whole city. Yet, year after year, I choose not to run. My reason? The Bolder Boulder, for all its size and spirit, stands out as the largest road race in the country without a designated charity.

Running for more than a medal

Across the nation, road races have become more than athletic events; they’re engines for good.

The New York City Marathon raises millions for hundreds of charities.

The Chicago Marathon, Boston, even local 5Ks — nearly all have a cause at their core, inviting runners to sweat for something bigger than themselves.

These events transform personal achievement into collective impact, uniting communities around shared purpose.

But the Bolder Boulder, despite drawing over 50,000 participants and national attention, has steadfastly remained a race for racing’s sake.

There’s no official charity partner, no fundraising platform, no invitation to run for a cause beyond the finish line. In a city as progressive and community-minded as Boulder, this omission feels glaring.

The power of purpose

I ran for many reasons: health, camaraderie, the thrill of competition. But the races that linger in my memory are those where my miles meant more — where every step helped fund cancer research, support local schools, or provide meals for families in need.

Purpose elevates the experience. It transforms a personal challenge into a force for good.

Imagine the impact if the Bolder Boulder harnessed its reach for a cause — any cause.

With its scale, even a modest fundraising effort could ripple across Boulder County and beyond, supporting the environment, mental health, youth programs or disaster relief.

The possibilities are as boundless as the Flatirons at sunrise.

A call for change

I don’t run the Bolder Boulder because I believe Boulder can do better. Our city is known for its activism, its generosity, its willingness to lead. Why not set the pace for the next generation of road races — one where every runner has the chance to make a difference?

To the organizers: You’ve built a world-class event. Now, let’s give it a world-class purpose.

To my fellow athletes: Let’s ask for more from our miles. Let’s run not just for ourselves, but for our community.

Until then, I’ll be cheering from the sidelines — and waiting for the day when every stride in the Bolder Boulder moves us all forward.

Bob Presson lives in Boulder.