UTICA, N.Y. -- The Boilermaker is an experience even for those who aren’t running the race. It brings hundreds of thousands of people to the Mohawk Valley each year. And whether you are spectator, a seasoned runner or going the distance for the first time – it is unlike most other races throughout the county.

And if the big crowd isn't your scene, but you still want to enjoy the event, you can watch live coverage on Spectrum News beginning at 7:30 a.m.

But what can you expect if you are running the race? Parking issues. Knowing where to park and when will save you time and frustration before the big race.

PARKING:

If you are running in the Boilermaker 5K – park at Murnane Field right off the Parkway near Genesee Street – and take the shuttle. Those running in the 15K – can park at either the start or the finish line – try parking anywhere at the end of Bleecker Street, walking a few blocks will pump you up to run. Check the roadways near the FX Matt Brewing Company too, but they fill up fast. There are shuttles that will take you to and from parking lots – the yellow buses – make use of them and follow the crowd! Seasoned runners know the best advice is to get there EARLY and beat the rush of last minute parking.

Tip: Your race bib will help volunteers know you are running and they will point you in the right direction should you lose your way.

SPECTATORS:

Everyone who has any experience with the Boilermaker knows that the hooting and hollering from the crowd make the race uniquely its own. The crowd will cheer you on from beginning to mile 9. Feeling like you will slow down near mile 5? Well, the spectators won’t let you feel alone, hearing “you’re almost there, you got this,” isn’t uncommon.

But if you’re running the race, where is your family allowed to cheer you on? Anywhere along the race route! There are certain places along the route that people are blocked off from walking near the finish line, not only for security purposes but to emit crowds from swarming near runners as they are crossing the line. Some good spots? Try Champlain Ave, the Parkway and the area near Mohawk Valley Community College.

Tip: One of the best crowds forms right near the brewery – for easier access to the post-race party, and loved ones of course.

DURING THE RACE:

Should you feel sick or "out of it" during the race, make sure to flag a volunteer. With so many people running, it is easy to be missed if you go down amid the crowd. This is especially true after you cross the finish line. People start sprinting in the last stretch, and volunteers don't want to see you get stepped on by fellow runners. Remember, at that point everyone is tired and zoned into crossing that line. There are dozens of EMS stations and personnel along the race route. If you aren't feeling well, let someone know. 

Also, if you aren't bringing your phone, there is a family and friends meet up spot located near the brewery. There will be thousands more than just the nearly 20,000 runners at the post-race party. 

Tip: Make sure you dodge the water cups. Let's face it, runners don't care about littering during the Boilermaker. The route is cleared the best it can be between the 5K and 15K, but there will most definitely be debris along the route. If you come across a pile, just dodge them with your fellow runners in mind. 

VOLUNTEERS:

When in doubt, ask a volunteer! If you are lost, unsure of where you should be and when, are unclear about where the next water station is -- just ask. The Boilermaker is made up of hundreds of volunteers. They prepare months ahead of the race, and will most likely be able to assist you in whatever you might need, or at least point you in the right direction. 

Tip: There is also an information booth -- use it. It is located near the Polish Community Center along the race route. 

Spectrum News reporter Brad Vivacqua will run in his 21st Boilermaker Road Race this year. Originally from Frankfort, New York, he is proud to say he grew up just a few miles away from the start line.

He was inspired by his father to start running several years ago, and although he runs many races throughout the year, he says it doesn't get any better than this Utica run.

So of course we asked Brad to offer up some tips unique to what he calls the "best race in the country."

  • 5. Don't Start Too Fast: Brad says that it can be easy to get off to a fast start because of all the happenings around the start line. The Boilermaker is known for the fans, music and activities -- so it can be easy to get hyped up and let the adrenaline push you to start a bit fast, which runners know can cause serious fatigue mid-race. He says to just try and enjoy all the race has to offer and take it easy those first few miles.
  • 4. Drink Plenty of Water: It is obvious in any run to stay hydrated throughout -- especially when going the distance -- but Brad says it isn't necessary to bring a water bottle to weigh you down. There are more than 20 designated water stations throughout the entire race route, and even people along the way set up their own water stations to offer runners support during the race.
  • 3. No Need to Wear Headphones: Believe it or not, this is the only race throughout the year that you won't catch Brad Vivacqua plugged in for. He says there is so much to enjoy and take in during the Boilermaker that he refuses to listen to music along the way. Brad loves a good tune here and there to get him pumped up during a run -- but the Boilermaker offers so much that other races don't -- so he likes to let the spectators root him on and listen to the natural sounds and race music along the way.
  • 2. You Aren't Almost There: Brad reminds you that once you hit the 9 mile mark -- you still have .3 miles to go! The Boilermaker is 9.3 miles and right around the 9 mile point -- spectators and fans chant "You're almost there." Brad reminds us that while it is nice to think the race is almost over, don't start sprinting like you are in the homestretch -- because you still have a bit to go.
  • 1. Post-Race Party: Last but certainly not least, Brad says to enjoy the party following the race. Once you have completed the race and accomplished such an amazing feat, Brad says the post-race party is one of the best around. There is music, and beer and camaraderie between fellow runners -- an all-around good time that you don't want to miss out on!