2014 Boulder Beer Mile
A fixture in North Boulder since 2007, there were a few hardy Boulder Beer Mile competitors who braved an 11-inch snowfall and 15-degree Fahrenheit temperatures Saturday afternoon. The basic rules: Competitors must drink one 12-ounce can of approximately 4% to 5% alcohol content before each 400-meter lap. To prove they consumed the entire can, competitors must hold the empty can over their head before taking off on each lap. If any competitor throws up or “chunders” while consuming the beer, they must complete an extra penalty lap for an official finish.
Warning: The Beer Mile is NOT pretty and this gallery includes one graphic photo of chundering.
All photographs © Timothy Carlson
Competitor Aaron Kutzer and women’s leader and rookie Ellen Howard tackles their 2nd beverage during the snowstorm.
Competitor Nick Przbysz pitches in with clearing the track of snow before the race. Note the adept use of razor scooter and shovel.
Ellen Howard, a marathon and 10k runner, adjusts what looks like snow-repellent gaiters before the race.
Nick Przbysz displays his very stylish pink running shorts and black fishnet stockings – ready to rumble.
Pre-race spectators included three-time winner Joanna Zeiger – center.
The entire 3-man, 1-woman field before the start.
When the horn sounded, three gentlemen and one lady popped their beer can tops and started drinking.
Five-time defending champion Josh Shadle shows efficient pop-top technique.
Perhaps future winner’s trophies will feature a sculptured rendition of Josh Shadle’s bravura beer-chugging style.
Nick Przbysz proves he drank the entire can.
Despite the snow, Josh Shadle was on pace to break his own 6:20 race record before he was slowed by the cold.
Aaron Kutzer cruises into his final lap.
Ellen Howard gave her 5% alcohol beer 110% but fell victim to the chunder impulse. Still, she cheerfully completed her penalty lap.
Josh Shadle completed his 6th Boulder Beer Mile in fine style.
Nearing completion of her chunder lap, Ellen Howard gave a fine Boulder Beer Mile interpretation of Brandi Chastain’s 1991 Women’s World Cup soccer celebration.
Race announcer and referee Billy Edwards displays the elegant Boulder Beer Mile trophy.
Timekeeper Adam Gordon was dressed for the elements.
The men’s podium with a 1-foot high aluminum stepladder for the gold medalist.
Women’s winner Ellen Howard poses daintily on the stepladder.
(L to R) Darcie Jones, Rachel Marie Everidge and Geoff Hower and a dog witnessed this foolhardy spectacle to the very end.
