5th Anniversary Flashback: RED Episode 1: The Tampa Beer Run
It's our 5th Anniversary this month. As part of the celebration, we will post flashback episodes all month long to celebrate and say thank you. If it were not for you, our Runcation Nation community, we would not have had this show for the last five years, had some of the most amazing experiences, and created lasting friendships in this community.
First up, The Tampa Beer Run. Just a spoiler, your host is a huge dork!
Hey, Everyone! Welcome to our first episode, where we head to Tampa, Florida, for the Tampa Beer Run. Yes, we get to sample beer on the course, but more importantly, this run raises funds for My Hope Chest, which helps women pay for reconstructive surgery after their courageous battles with breast cancer. After the run, we need to refuel, and what better way than to sample Tampa on a plate at the Columbia Restaurant. Our final stop on this trip is Cigar City Brewing, where you can spot the rolling of cigars and a long line of tasty beer on tap, and ours is just a sampling of their libations. For more information, check out the show notes below.
MY HOPE CHEST
Connect with My Hope Chest at their website and learn about their upcoming 5K Glow Run in April 2018, also in the Tampa area.
AL LOPEZ PARK
This is a beautiful park that is flat and easy race. There was no time limit or specific pace per mile you needed to adhere to, so this race is great for beginners or run/walkers.
TAMPA BEER RUN ON FACEBOOK
We paid a reasonable entry fee of $45 and added a VIP ticket for $12 more to get a couple of extra beers at the after-party, souvenir Tampa Beer Run glasses, and a white cotton t-shirt.
COLUMBIA RESTAURANT
This Tampa staple has been around since 1905, and we happened to sample these:
Crab Croquette
Spanish Bean Soup
1905 Salad
Cuban Sandwich
CIGAR CITY BREWING
At this brewery, there are some fantastic beers, and here is a list of a few we recommend:
Pollona! With Chocolate! Milk Stout with Chocolate
110K+OT Batch #9 Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Imperial Brown Ale
We've crossed the finish line!
Thank you for watching!! Join us next time as we run another destination race, sample tasty beverages, and refuel with delicious food. We hope this helps you preview some fantastic vacation or "runcation" destinations. If you have any that we should feature, please let us know on Instagram, Twitter, or our website, www.runeatdrink.net.
THAT'S A WRAP!
As always, if you choose to indulge, please drink responsibly by having a designated driver or taking a rideshare service. Stay safe, Runcation Nation!