[5] Although 15Ks are uncommon compared to other road races, the Boilermaker has been rated highly by running publications.

The race gained prominence in 1983 when American distance runner Bill Rodgers won with a time of 44:38.

From 1997 to 2006, the Boilermaker was known as the largest 15K race in the United States, but was overtaken by the Gate River Run in Jacksonville, Florida, in later years.

[citation needed] The Boilermaker has been described as an essential part of the identity of its host city, Utica, like the Peachtree Road Race in Atlanta, Georgia.

The field in the wheelchair race was also much smaller that year, consisting of only four competitors, all from New York State.