Commemorating the 49th Anniversary of the Boilermaker Road Race in Utica, New York

Assembly Resolution No. 1353

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

        COMMEMORATING   the   49th   Anniversary   of  the
        Boilermaker Road Race in Utica, New York

  WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to  recognize  and
commend  significant events that contribute to the spirit, vitality, and
well-being of the communities of New York State; and

  WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and  in  full  accord  with  its
long-standing  traditions,  this  Legislative  Body  is  justly proud to
commend the Boilermaker Road Race in Utica, New York, upon the  occasion
of  its  49th  Anniversary, marking nearly five decades of excellence in
road racing and community celebration; and

  WHEREAS, The Boilermaker Road Race began in 1978  to  celebrate  the
Utica  Boilers'  50th  Anniversary and has grown into one of the premier
15K races in the United States, promoting  health,  fitness,  and  civic
pride  in the Greater Utica area and attracting world-class athletes and
thousands of participants from across the globe; and

  WHEREAS, This iconic event has become a  signature  celebration  for
the Mohawk Valley Region, uniting runners, spectators, volunteers, local
organizations,  and  businesses  in  a  powerful expression of community
spirit and hospitality; and

  WHEREAS, The Boilermaker has expanded to include  a  wide  range  of
inclusive  events,  such  as  the  15K,  5K,  youth runs, and wheelchair
division, ensuring that people of all ages and abilities can participate
in this extraordinary tradition; and

  WHEREAS, Beyond the race itself, the Boilermaker embodies values  of
perseverance,   wellness,  and  unity  through  its  associated  events,
including the Health and Wellness  Expo,  opening  ceremonies,  military
tributes, and the famed finish line celebration at the F.X. Matt Brewing
Company; and

  WHEREAS,  As  a  nonprofit  foundation, the Boilermaker continues to
promote  year-round  wellness  initiatives  and  community  programming,
including the Access Program, the Charity Bib Program, and the Community
Garden,  ensuring  that its positive impact extends far beyond race day;
and

  WHEREAS, The 49th Anniversary of the Boilermaker  Road  Race,  which
will  take  place  this year on Sunday, July 12, 2026, is a testament to
the  tireless  efforts  of  its  organizers,  the  dedication   of   its
volunteers,  and  the  enthusiastic  support  of the Utica community and
beyond; and

  WHEREAS, The Boilermaker represents the best of what New York  State
has  to  offer--determination,  inclusivity,  partnership,  and pride in
place; now, therefore, be it

  RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its  deliberations  to
commend  the  Boilermaker  Road  Race,  upon  the  occasion  of its 49th

Anniversary, and to recognize its  continued  tradition  of  excellence,
service, and celebration of the human spirit; and be it further

  RESOLVED,  That  copies  of  this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Boilermaker Road Race and  its  organizing  committee
with  the  sincere  congratulations and appreciation of this Legislative
Body.