Six Boilermaker Road Race participants in Utica are joining forces under the Grateful for Graham charity partnership. Their mission: to raise awareness for epidermolysis bullosa (EB) and bring hope to those affected by this rare disease.
Grateful for Graham team spreads EB awareness
Key Takeaways:
- Six runners will take part in the 2026 Boilermaker Road Race to spread awareness about epidermolysis bullosa (EB).
- Grateful for Graham (EB Research Partnership) serves as their charity bib partner.
- The majority of these runners are tackling the event’s 15K distance.
- Utica is home to this widely respected road-running competition.
- Community support is vital in highlighting EB and supporting ongoing research.
The 2026 Boilermaker Road Race
Utica’s 2026 Boilermaker Road Race has long been celebrated for drawing athletes from across the country to its challenging course. This year, the race spotlights a passionate group of six running on behalf of Grateful for Graham, an EB Research Partnership initiative.
Why EB Awareness Matters
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a little-known but severe genetic condition causing fragile skin and significant discomfort. By running under the Grateful for Graham banner, participants hope to acquaint more people with the realities of EB and encourage broader community backing for research.
The Runners’ Motivation
Although details about each runner remain private, their collective purpose shines through: champion EB awareness and encourage support. “Six runners in the 2026 Boilermaker Road Race will be running the event through the charity bib partner Grateful for Graham,” states the Boilermaker announcement. The majority of this enthusiastic team will compete in the 15K, known for its energy-charged atmosphere and cheering crowds.
The Charity Bib Partner
Grateful for Graham is an initiative in partnership with the EB Research Partnership that helps runners use their Boilermaker bibs to raise both funds and awareness. It underscores how athletic events can be harnessed for greater good, particularly in drawing attention to under-recognized diseases like EB.
The Road Ahead
With the race date set for July 9, 2026, these six runners will join thousands of others in Utica to test their endurance for a worthy cause. Each step they take underscores the importance of rallying public support and elevating awareness about EB.
A Community Effort
Public engagement can amplify the efforts of these dedicated participants. Whether by cheering from the sidelines or spreading the word about EB, every gesture counts. As the Boilermaker continues to unite communities each summer, the team’s efforts reflect the deep humanitarian drive running at the heart of this iconic race.