UPDATE: The Boulder Burrito League Challenge is in full swing as participants brave harsh winter conditions to complete laps in south Boulder. Endurance athlete Stefana Kornicer is currently in a fierce battle for first place, having completed over 732 laps—equivalent to 145.13 miles—since the challenge kicked off on January 1, 2023. As the snow piles up and temperatures plummet to nearly 0 degrees Fahrenheit, Kornicer and fellow competitors are pushing their limits.
On Sunday, Kornicer continued her relentless pace along the 0.2-mile loop starting at the intersection of Broadway Street and Table Mesa Drive. Despite challenging weather, she shared, “It’s almost meditative. It’s been awesome.” Kornicer, who also works as a mortgage loan underwriter, revealed that this challenge not only aids her physical fitness but also clears her mind for work.
The competition, which concludes at midnight on January 28, 2023, has drawn participants from various backgrounds, all competing to win prizes including a year’s worth of burritos from Skratch Labs, running shoes, and entry to the 2026 Bolder Boulder. “It’s such a silly thing, and the absurdity has an appeal,” said Kelsey Lakowske, currently leading the challenge with 801 laps (approximately 154.7 miles).
As of now, the race is neck-and-neck, with Kornicer trailing Lakowske closely. The atmosphere at Runners Roost is electric, with participants stopping to refuel with treats and coffee provided by the store. The community spirit is palpable, with many runners sharing camaraderie while battling the elements.
Participants have been flooding the Runners Roost store, which has become a hub of activity, hosting a feed station for weary runners. “The people I’ve met have been fantastic; I barely have time alone,” Lakowske shared about her experience. For many, this event is less about competition and more about community building and mental resilience.
As the challenge reaches its final days, the stakes are high for Kornicer and Lakowske. Both athletes emphasize the importance of the friendships forged throughout this experience. “It will be lovely if I win, but it will be a success if I come out of it with friends and training partners,” Lakowske added.
This grassroots movement has ignited local enthusiasm, and even as the Denver Broncos playoff game plays on, countless residents are choosing to lace up their shoes and hit the snowy trails. Follow the ongoing competition at run-boulder.com, or join the final gathering at Runners Roost for an exciting conclusion to the Boulder Burrito League Challenge.
It’s a race against time, with participants pushing through the harsh winter to achieve their fitness goals while deepening their connections within the community. As Saturday approaches, all eyes will be on the leaderboard as the final laps dictate who will take home the coveted prizes.
