BOULDER, Colo. – The BOLDERBoulder, one of America’s most iconic 10K races, is proud to announce that Peggy Coppom, beloved CU Buffs superfan and community icon, and Rick George, University of Colorado’s Athletic Director, will serve as the official starters for this year’s race on Monday, May 26, 2025.
A long-standing tradition, the honor of starting the BOLDERBoulder is reserved for individuals who embody the spirit, passion, and pride of the Boulder community. This year’s starters exemplify that legacy in every way.
Peggy Coppom, a lifelong CU supporter, dating back to the 1940s, and a staple in the stands at Folsom Field, gained national recognition for her unwavering devotion to the Buffs. She has attended more than 2,500 CU sporting events across nine sports. At 100 years old, her enthusiasm and positivity continue to inspire generations of CU fans and runners alike. At the recent CU Commencement ceremony held on a perfect spring Colorado day, Coppom received a loud and enthusiastic standing ovation from the 35,000 attendees as she was presented with the Chancellor’s Impact Award. Later that day, she viewed for the first time a mural depicting herself and her twin sister, Betty, which had been installed at the entrance of the Athletic Department offices. “I am so honored to join CU Athletic Director Rick George as official co-starter for the 45th annual BOLDERBoulder, stated Coppom. I remember the very first racecourse ran right by my house and it’s been so exciting to see it grow to become one of the biggest and best running races in the country. The BOLDERBoulder is so important to our community and is one of the events that make Boulder such a special place. Good luck to all the competitors this year. Rick and I will be cheering you on!”
Rick George has served as CU’s Athletic Director since 2013, leading with integrity and helping elevate the university’s athletic profile on a national level. Under his leadership, CU has enhanced its facilities, increased student-athlete support, and welcomed headline-making coaching hires that have energized fans across the country. “The BOLDERBoulder is a beloved institution in our community, and I am honored to serve as official co-starter with our community’s other beloved institution- Peggy Coppom, stated George. For 45 years, the BOLDERBoulder has been one of the premier running races in the country, perfectly combining fitness, friendship, and fun. I’m looking forward to joining Peggy at the starting line and seeing the thousands of smiling faces as they begin their journey to iconic Folsom Field, home of the Buffaloes and site of the annual Memorial Day Tribute honoring our veterans.”
“Rick George has been a transformative leader for CU Athletics, and Peggy Coppom represents the heart and soul of Buffs fandom,” said Cliff Bosley, Race Director of the BOLDERBoulder. “Their presence on the starting line is a tribute to the university’s connection to the Boulder community and the spirit of perseverance and celebration that the race stands for.”
Coppom and George join an esteemed group of race official starters over the years including; Olympic Gold Medalist Frank Shorter, Olympic Bronze Medalist Emma Coburn, Denver Broncos’ wide receiver Ed McCaffery, famed columnist Rick Reilly, and other CU legends like Bruce Benson, Tad Boyle, Mike Bohn, Mark Johnson and Gary Barnett.
The BOLDERBoulder will kick off at 6:45 a.m. on Memorial Day and is expected to draw over 50,000 runners, walkers, and wheelchair racers. The race finishes in spectacular fashion at the University of Colorado’s Folsom Field, where a Memorial Day Tribute will be held following the race.
For more information or to register, visit www.bolderboulder.com.