Athletes raced for a drink Saturday afternoon at Murphy Park.
American Legion Graham D. Luhn Post 39 hosted its sixth annual Taylor Veterans 5K Beer Run Nov. 4. According to Athlete Guild, the entity that timed the race, 53 runners participated in the 5K.
Runners ran a 3.1-mile course while stopping to consume four-ounce tasters of different Texas Beer Company products stationed along the route.
“I always enjoy the American Legion Beer Run,” said District 2 Taylor City Councilman Mitchell Drummond, who participated in the race. “Running with beer is not something I would do every day but it’s fun sharing the challenge once a year. The goal is not to win but to survive to the finish line.”
Since the run was open to competitors of all ages, it was not a requirement to drink beer. Caroline Talarcek was the first runner to cross the finish line and competed in the 1-20 female category with a time of 24 minutes and 50 seconds.
American Legion Graham Post 39 Commander Scott Dean watches runners begin the race in the sixth annual Taylor Veterans 5K Beer Run. Photo by Hunter Dworaczyk
Those who wished to be considered the “beer champion” needed to partake in drinking at the eight beer stops along the course.
Runners who partook in the actual “beer run” received a punch card at the beginning of the race. At each of the beer stations, they handed their card to someone at the station. Once the runner finished their beer, the card was stamped and returned to the runner so they could head to the next station.
A male and female beer champion were crowned. Jonathan Beal had the fastest male beer finish with a time of 25 minutes and 30 seconds, while Alison Talarcek had the fastest female beer finish with a time of 26 minutes and 55 seconds.
American Legion Commander Scott Dean said proceeds from the event will go towards American Legion and East Williamson County charities.
“All the money raised stays in the community and is for the community,” Dean said.
Additionally, he said proceeds will fund scholarships eventually given to high school students who attend Texas Boys State and Texas Girls State in the summer.
Runner Micah Lillie drinks beer at the eighth and final beer station during the Taylor Veterans 5K Beer Run. Volunteer Richard Stone handed out the four-ounce tasters at the stop. Photo by Hunter Dworaczyk
