CONMED team members are engaged in the communities where they live and work. At our Utica, NY site, we participate in the Boilermaker, a world-renowned event that is specifically known for its 15K road race that attracts elite runners from around the world!

This year, CONMED employees participated in the 15K Road Race, 5K Road Race, and by volunteering! It was great seeing everyone at the race and the Boilermaker Expo!

Hear from a few of our 2022 runners on their history with the Boilermaker and why they continue to run year after year!

Julie H. – Executive Assistant and HR/Communications Manager

1. How many Boilermakers have you participated in?
I have participated in five Boilermakers (one virtual 5k, and four in person 15k races)
2. How do you prep/train for the Boilermaker?
Get out and run! I include a lot of uphill running especially. I also include other activities like yoga and walking.
3. What motivates you to participate?
I love the community aspect of the Boilermaker. It’s inspirational to see so many different people contributing to make the event a success – ranging from participating as a runner to volunteering their time at the post-race party. It’s really fun and makes me proud to be a member of the Utica community.
4. What is your favorite part?
During the 15k, there is an uphill run in the golf course, followed by a downhill stretch. There is a beautiful view of the city… I think it’s almost at the halfway point. I love that part!! A close second favorite is that usually there is a house with a guy holding a sign at the very beginning of the race… it says something along the lines of “Only nine more miles to go!” I always laugh when I see that sign.
5. Any advice to new runners this year?
Relax and have fun. It will make the running easier, and you’ll be more present in the moment to take in the whole experience – the music, signs, fellow runners in crazy costumes, and more.

Terence B. – VP Corporate Controller

1. How many Boilermakers have you participated in?
Four.
2. How do you prep/train for the Boilermaker?
I use an app which tells me how far and how often to run.
3. What motivates you to participate?
It’s a ton of fun.
4. What is your favorite part?
Watching all the spectators and entertainment along the race and running with my kids.
5. Any advice to new runners this year?
Make sure you train at least a little bit, otherwise it could be not as fun.

Daniel B. – Sr. Specialist Buyer/Planner

1. How many Boilermakers have you participated in?
I have participated in four Boilermakers. This year will be my fifth!
2. How do you prep/train for the Boilermaker?
I typically run three-four times a week gradually increasing my distance as we get closer to race day.
3. What motivates you to participate?
The Boilermaker is one of Utica’s biggest events of the year, so I enjoy being a part of something quite meaningful! Also, the race gives me a reason to stay in shape over the summer.
4. What is your favorite part?
The post-race party of course! It’s great to hang out with my friends after the race and enjoy some music, free food, and drinks.
5. Any advice to new runners this year?
Starting training early definitely helped my conditioning for the race. If you haven’t started running, I’d get to it!

Interested in learning more? View our 2019 Boilermaker blog, here.