Dreary weather and rainfall didn’t stop more than 1100 runners from participating in this year’s Hop Dash! On Saturday, October 8, beer fans and runners alike congregated in downtown Harrisburg for the 3rd annual Tröegs Hop Dash to benefit the East Shore YMCA. The inaugural Hop Dash (held in Hershey at Tröegs Brewery in 2014) sold out to 500 runners in 90 minutes. Last year saw the event move to downtown Harrisburg to the Capital complex, which drew more than 1000 runners.
“Our family has been a supporter of the YMCA for a long time, and we’ve developed a strong relationship with them over the years,” said Chris Trogner, founder and co-owner of Tröegs. “We’re excited to see the Hop Dash continue to grow and draw people from outside Central PA.”
The 5k race course navigated runners through a unique course traversing downtown Harrisburg, starting at the base of the Capitol complex, across the State Street Bridge, and back around to the Capitol steps. In an effort to keep the race spirited and upbeat, runners were encouraged to dress up in their best Tröegs-inspired costumes.
Afterwards, race participants and spectators enjoyed a variety of activities at the Hop Dash Bash, including an awards ceremony for the top runners and costume contestants. Jeremy Matula and Ashley Kearcher captured the “Best Overall” male and female honors, respectively. There was also plenty of Tröegs beer flowing for the thirsty runners as well as delicious food courtesy of Baron Von Schwein and Mad Dash Grilled Cheese.
“There’s nothing more thrilling than organizing a race with a company that really ‘gets it’ like Tröegs,” said Tom Gifford, Race Series Director for the East Shore YMCA. “Without partnerships like this, our YMCA could not serve the community, so we’re very grateful for our friends at Tröegs.” At the end of the day, the Hop Dash helped to raise more than $30,000 for the East Shore YMCA.
