Remember those test questions – such as what beer is to nuts, or what running is to sneakers? Well, the popular Westhampton Beach Brewing Company (WHBBC) has aced it by combining the enjoyment of the second most popular beverage in the world (after tea) with the healthy pursuit of running, jogging, or even walking.
Having celebrated their Grand Opening just this past July WHBBC is owned by partners Brian Sckipp (CEO), John Salvaggio (COO) and Kathleen Tedesco. Patrons and visitors are encouraged to head out at 5:45 p.m. every Monday for a 5K run, and then return to the brewery to enjoy a few $5 pints. Combining the health benefits of running with the social benefits of frequenting your favorite watering hole certainly deserves an “A” for all participants.
Britton Bistrian, who runs the local Westhampton Beach Running Club, and who coordinates the Monday night runs is also the co-director for the inaugural K’s for Kegs Run to be held on Sunday, December 9 at 10:00 a.m. The run takes place rain or shine, and starts at the brewery near the Suffolk County/Gabreski Airport, goes along North Perimeter Road along the back side of the airport, so there are no traffic concerns, and ends back at the brewery.
Bistrian, who is also an investor at WHBBC said, “Amy Sckipp and I founded the running club in an effort to help people to get to know each other for neighborhood mutual athletic interests, as well as professional networking and socialization. It has become this very welcoming activity that is ever evolving, and every week someone new joins us. We run in the snow, rain or dark and have some sub seven-milers, as well as participants who just want to walk for 20 minutes. We then all gather at the brewery for a celebratory pint. It is a non-stressful, level playing field for all abilities and ages. I call it the WHB – we have beer, couch to 5K gang.”
According to Tedesco’s husband, Rich, all beers are brewed entirely on the premises under the skills of brewer, David Deturris, and all the running takes place from the same location. Further, WHBBC is working with the town for zoning for food trucks.
However, for now just show up and lace up, as presently there are many hearty souls who plan to run, and enjoy some brisk exercise followed by a few chilled brews and the camaraderie of new and old friends – but don’t let your legs get too weary as there is music and dancing after the run back at WHBBC.
WHBCC is located at 220 Roger’s Way, Suite I, in Westhampton Beach. For more information call 631-998-0800, or check out www.facebook.com, or email Britton at [email protected].