Basics

What’s this all about?

We get together every Wednesday night, run or walk a few miles, and socialize at a different local establishment afterward.

What’s the backstory?

It all began with a study by Dr. Manuel Castillo at the University of Granada which concluded that a small amount of beer after a run was similar to water for hydration. David April founded the Fishtown Beer Runners in Philadelphia in 2007 to test the theory. Gettysburg Beer Runners was founded in 2013 by Mark Purdy to continue the ongoing research here in Adams County.

Where can I learn more about the history?

  • The great Beer Runners film features the origin story of the beer running concept.
  • Poured in PA episode on Beer Runners highlights GBR with footage from our 10th anniversary in 2023.

How do I join?

Just show up on a Wednesday night. There are no membership fees and no obligations. We are happy to have you.

How do I stay in the loop?

The weekly newsletter is the best source of information (Sign up here). The newsletter is cross-posted to Facebook and Bluesky. We also post the weekly course details on Strava and Upcoming Runs. Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] with any questions.

The Run

When and where do you meet?

Every Wednesday, 6:30PM is our traditional start time. There is also a 6PM wave for walkers and earlybirds. Most runs begin and end at the bar for the week. There are a few exceptions; check the website and weekly newsletter for precise instructions.

Some common alternate spots:

  • Olivia’s: We meet up in the dirt lot across the street from the main parking lot.
  • Fourscore: We meet up at the Albert Woolson Monument on Hancock Ave in the warmer months. In the winter months we meet up at the bar.
  • O'Rorke's: Meet up in the Gettysburg Tour Center lot.
  • Battlefield Brew Works: Meet up at Gettysburg High School parking lot.

Will I get lost?

There’s always someone else who knows where they are going. We post the weekly course map on the website and Strava. The Strava map can be downloaded as a GPX file and synced to your watch if it has a navigation feature.

Will I be able to keep up?

We are a “run at your own pace” group and welcome runners of all abilities. Just come out, run or walk a few miles, and have a good time.

What are the courses like?

Usually about 3 miles of road running. Roads are open to normal traffic, some fairly busy. Use your best judgement and run at your own risk. This being central Pennsylvania, rolling hills make a frequent appearance. In the warmer months we take advantage of the battlefield roads. In the winter, we stay on town roads. We are beholden to the park service rules and are not allowed to traverse battlefield roads when it’s dark. See NPS Superintendent's Compendium 36 CFR §1.5 for more information.

Do I have to do the whole thing?

Nope. Our motto is: “Get to the bar, no questions asked.” We share a suggested course every week but you are free to do whatever you want! Improvise and edit at will.

What if it’s raining?

We meet in all weather conditions. Please use your best judgement if the weather looks particularly dicey. Running in severe weather is not recommended.

What about the winter?

We go year-round! Not everyone enjoys the “fun” of running all winter long and our numbers tend to shrink when it gets cold. Don’t knock it until you try it.

What do I bring?

Just you and your running clothes. A headlamp and reflective gear when it’s dark (November - March) is strongly recommended. Your ID is a good idea (certain bars card everyone).

Got any good races to recommend?

Watch the newsletter for upcoming races of interest.

A few perennial favorites:

The Round

Do I have to drink?

You are welcome to join us for a run and socialize, with or without alcohol. Plenty of people join us just for the miles, the socialization and good vibes.

Do you drink before or during the run?

No. The club philosophy is to have a beer after running (strictly for hydration purposes).

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, but we do meet up at bars, which tend to be more focused on the 21+ crowd. We encourage you to use your best judgement.

What’s the food situation?

Most destinations have food. We sometimes visit places that do not serve food. Please be patient if you plan to eat as it may take some time to serve everyone.

Traditions

Where can I get merch?

Watch the newsletter for periodic shirt sales. There are usually a couple of opportunities to buy shirts each year.

What’s the deal with that big beer bottle full of cash?

We collect spare cash throughout the year. Every year we nominate charities to receive a donation from the group. A winner is randomly selected in December. Have a spare buck or two? Chuck it in Big Brown! Big Brown has its own Venmo if you prefer (scan the QR code on the bottle).

What is the toast?

To the Professor!!!
To the Run!
To the Round!
GBR on 3, 1-2-3 …
GBR!