After-Party Kicks Off at the Boilermaker

The Boilermaker Road Race: A Celebration of Running and Community

The Boilermaker Road Race in Utica is more than just a sporting event—it’s a vibrant celebration of community, fitness, and tradition. This year’s event brought together runners from across the globe, all united by their love for the race. From the excitement of the after-party to the dedication of longtime participants, the Boilermaker continues to be a highlight of the summer.

The After-Party and More

One of the most anticipated parts of the Boilermaker is the post-race celebration. At the Saranac Post Race Party hosted at F.X. Matt Brewing Co., runners can enjoy the fruits of their labor with a drink or two. The party also features live music, food vendors, and a chance to mingle with fellow racers. The official beer of the event, Weekend Warrior, is a golden pilsner crafted for those who lead active lives but still want to enjoy a flavorful brew. With 3% alcohol by volume, it's a perfect way to unwind after a long run.

Race Results and Records

This year’s race saw some impressive performances. Veronica Loleo claimed the women’s 15K title with a time of 49:37, while John Korir repeated as the men’s 15K winner, finishing in approximately 42:47. Though slightly slower than his winning time last year (42:11), Korir’s performance was still remarkable. For comparison, last year’s men’s 15K was decided in a photo finish with a time of 49:18.

In the 5K races, Brandon Moran and Juliet Hull took first place in the men’s and women’s categories respectively. These victories are just a few of the many highlights that make the Boilermaker such a special event.

A Global Affair

The Boilermaker has a long history of drawing participants from all over the world. This year, runners came from countries such as Canada, Portugal, Greece, the Netherlands, Hungary, the U.K., Norway, Germany, Mexico, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The race has even attracted participants from neighboring states like New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Florida, among others.

For many, the Boilermaker is more than just a race—it’s a lifelong passion. Alfonso Zaragoza, who traveled from Mexico, is making his eighth appearance at the event. He has been competing in similar races for the past 28 years, and he credits the energy of the crowd as a major motivator.

Support and Camaraderie

The sense of community is one of the defining characteristics of the Boilermaker. Runners often speak about the support they receive from spectators, volunteers, and fellow competitors. Roger Williams, a teacher and firefighter, has participated in the race six times. He originally joined because his friends told him it was an event where everyone was cheering each other on. Since then, he’s been hooked.

Others, like John Nagy, have faced challenges in keeping up with the race. Nagy started participating in 2018, but his job as a truck driver has made training difficult. He hopes to return next year, as he believes the camaraderie and energy of the event are worth every effort.

Volunteers and Lifelong Memories

Some runners transition from competitors to volunteers. Kathy Cleary, who has been part of the Boilermaker for 25 years, ran the 15K five times before deciding to volunteer this year. She said the event has played a significant role in her life in the Mohawk Valley.

Race Details and Weather

The Boilermaker 15K Road Race, presented by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, starts at 8 a.m. on Sunday, July 13. The Wheelchair Race begins at 7:45 a.m., and the 5K Race, presented by Utica National, starts at 7:15 a.m. The course takes runners through the heart of Utica, including Memorial Parkway, Valley View Country Club, and the Utica College Campus.

Weather forecasts for the day suggest a warm front moving through the area, with a 30% chance of rain in the early morning and a 45% chance by the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to reach around 85 degrees by late afternoon.

Records and Longtime Participants

The Boilermaker has seen some incredible records set over the years. In 2023, Jemal Yimer Makonnen of Ethiopia won the men’s open 15K in 42:06, while Edna Kiplagat of Kenya holds the women’s open 15K record with a time of 47:57. In the wheelchair division, Daniel Romanchuk and Amanda McGrory set impressive times in 2022 and 2017, respectively.

There are also runners who have never missed the event. Robert Bluey, Daniel DeFrees, and others have participated in the 15K every year through 2024, showcasing their dedication to the race.

A Tradition That Lives On

From the opening ceremony to the final stretch of the race, the Boilermaker continues to bring people together. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a first-time participant, or a volunteer, there’s something for everyone. As the sun sets on another successful event, the memories and friendships formed during the Boilermaker will last a lifetime.