The National Distance Running Hall of Fame was established in Utica, NY in 1998 to honor the sport of distance running and the premier athletes in the field. Each year during Boilermaker weekend the Hall inducts a selected group of distance runners who have made outstanding contributions to the sport of distance running. Past inductees include Mary Decker Slaney, Steve Prefontaine, Alberto Salazar, Grete Waitz, Joan Benoit Samuelson, Frank Shorter, Kathrine Switzer, and one of Utica's favorite people, Bill Rodgers a frequent Boilermaker runner. Bill writes in his own blog, "July 11th I raced an old favorite of mine and for thousands (ten to be close!) the Utica Boilermaker 15K in 53:10. This is a MAJOR RACE. Big in every way, from fan support along the course to the band at the finish to the competitive field."
     A stroll through the Hall of Fame is like taking a walk back in time. You will see all of the legends of the sports and much of their equipment and memorabilia on display. There are numerous pictorials, memorabilia displays, and award exhibits to read, reflect on, and learn from. Although a small city, Utica, N.Y. was selected because it is the home of The Boilermaker and has strong community support for the sport of running. Visit the Hall of Fame's Official Website | Map Directions

The Falling Leaves road race presented by the Utica Road Runners is Utica's oldest organized race, even older than the Boilermaker. This race is a fall classic for Utica. Usually occurring each year towards the end of September when the leaves have begun to change to red here in the Mohawk Valley. The race consists of a 5K and 14K distances with runner and wheel chair divisions.

Just like most events in Utica, when we do it, we do it BIG. The Heart Run & Walk is one of the largest fund raising events for the American Heart Association each year. Thousands of people turn out in the middle of winter to run, walk, and raise funds for the AHA. Each year the people of the Utica area raise over 1 million dollars for the American Heart Association. It's a great time and fun is usually had by all. There are various distance runs associated with the event but the heartiest folks try the 18-mile run that starts way up in Barneveld, NY at the crack of dawn. Here is the link to the event's website if you'd like to Read More.

Utica, NY is graced with a top-notch running club called the Utica RoadRunners. The group is very active year-round and has weekly events, monthly business meetings, and hosts a number of group runs. Additionally the club's dedicated members organize and manage a number of seasonal runs including the Utica Development Runs. Their members are vital to the success of running in Utica. They state on their website that they are a diverse group of over 400 people that promote health and fitness through running as well as many other activities. All ages and paces are welcome to join. Visit the link below to find out more and join.