BOULDER, Colo. -- It's Memorial Day, and in Colorado, besides honoring our veterans, many Coloradans spend the holiday running or watching the Bolder Boulder.

Race organizers said 53,700 people ran or walked in this year's Bolder Boulder, just 300 shy of the record.

"The record for the Bolder Boulder race was 54,040 set in 2008," said Bolder Boulder organizer Tim Cronin.

There were 88 waves of runners, some who sprinted all out and some who ran for fun.

"I ran with flower power," said Wheat Ridge runner Lisa Wilson, who wore a big flower on her head. "I didn't want to put a big solar thing on my head so I thought flower power, and I tell you, it got me through."

Some people ran with a special purpose, with tags commemorating those who died in the service.

"On Monday my whole family is running in honor of Quamo Camino, my father-in-law," said Glenn Morino, who is from Chicago.

"I just pray that people who are here are actually recognizing the sacrifices of the men and women in the military, not just because it is a day off and we are with 55,000 of their closest friends today," said Air Force veteran Mary Shahan.

And some, such as Bob Alexander, ran because he's alive and can, he said. He just had open heart surgery in December.

"The message is, these are all athletes … If you don't feel good, get it checked out," Alexander said.

Even Dr. Mehmet Oz joined in the celebration. He ran his first Bolder Boulder and said he hopes to do so again next year.

Bolder Boulder is one of the premier races in the country, the second largest foot race in the states behind California's Bay to Breakers.

Did you run the Bolder Boulder? Check yourself out in our finish line videos.