Denver City Wire

Despite the rain, Coloradans participated in the Denver 5K on the Runway at the Denver International Airport.

"There’s nothing like a crisp, cool morning running a 5k on a runway!" Denver International Airport posted on Facebook. "Over 2,000 runners had a special experience on the DEN airfield then got to hang in the United hangar."

The Denver Colfax Marathon confirmed that 2,500 individuals ran down the United runway, making history.

“This is the first time in the airport’s history that we have held an event like this on the airfield,” Phil Washington, chief executive officer of the Denver International Airport, said, according to Denver Colfax Marathon. “We are excited to offer this unique experience for the community to see DEN from a different perspective while enjoying the beauty of our airport and the surrounding landscape.”

Registration for the event was $49 for 18 years old and above and $39 for youth entrants, ages 8 to 17. It was a sold-out event, and participants, including the leadership team, were delighted to have made history.

"Excited to have United sponsor the first ever 5K Run on the Runway at DEN airport this weekend," Matt Miller, vice president for airport operations for United Airlines Denver Hub, said on Twitter. "Can’t wait until next year!"

Miller thanked the volunteers and the Transportation Security Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Denver Colfax Marathon, who were partners for the event. 

CBS News Colorado reports that participants had an hour to run and had to be off the runway by 7 a.m.  

Winners of the 5K marathon will receive an acrylic trophy, a United Airlines United Club one-year membership and a Denver International Airport framed picture.