We’re now over two months in and the 2016 Inaugural Brewers’ Cup competition is still on fire as our runners continue to set record attendance at all Pikes Peak Road Runner races, are frequently found monopolizing the awards podiums, swarming local breweries and creating a buzz that’s gained recognition even outside our own little community. We have our very own movie in the works (thanks to Manitou Brewing) and are working on a big group shindig at the end of the year to bestow even more awards and prizes to our loyal members. I’m continually in awe of the camaraderie, excitement, sportsmanship and enthusiasm from all of our teams. Still, the statement I hear most is “I don’t envy your job."

It’s true, the Brewers’ Cup isn’t all sunshine and roses behind the scenes since sometimes pure competition can turn even the most amenable folks into a hot, irritated mess (black cotton running shirts and long sleeved jerseys have not appeared to help the matter, by the way). Although I’ll admit those few exchanges evoke frustration similar to those I've experienced while trying to be a decent parent, the truth is that I love this group regardless and respect everyone who demonstrates that much passion for what they do – even when the prize is only a buck off a beer and a traveling trophy for your efforts. This competition is clearly larger than that. It’s about your TEAM and I love that. I admire the intensity, appreciate the dedication and wouldn’t trade my role for anything. I’m constantly learning through all of the other runners and have been fascinated by the difference in psychology as I get to know runners from both the front and back of the pack. While there are many differences in both teams and runners, there is one thing they all have in common – a crazy devotion and pride for their breweries and teammates.

When I dreamed up the Brewers’ Cup, I wanted to foster a group where each and every individual felt like they mattered to the team no matter what pace they may travel. You like to run? Great! Prefer to walk? Fine! You each are entitled to the same amount of points! Awesome! I wanted a group where both elites and novices could gather, conquer the trails, share a beer and congratulate each other for the effort. A group with less judgement and more encouragement. A group of runners that might gut out the last few yards in brutal competition with each other, but readily give a high five once the finish line is crossed because something bigger than themselves draws them together in the end. In order to find those things, you really need something powerful to string everyone together. After all, running has always more or less been considered an individual sport. Enter the landscape of our craft beer scene and come to find out, I’ve seen all those things and more.

I’ve watched new runners bubble with excitement both before and after a race, competitive runners break into smiles at the sight of the right shirt on the course and brewery owners proudly cheer their personal gladiators into battle wearing the colors of their tribe. And it’s only been two months! I’m already excited for next year and am working on ways to improve the competition and rally more people and goodness into the cause. There's certainly no way I can make everyone happy, but please know that all of you brewery runners make my day, even on the days we don’t have a race and even on the days that we may disagree. Don’t worry about my morale because it's perpetually high and in the words of my favorite Monty Python flick, "I'm not dead yet!" Please feel free to contact me if you feel the need (unless it’s about scoring, then of course you should email the address on the standings page).

2016 is a fabulous year and I wish all of you the best. Good luck on the trails and I will see you next at the Full Moon Run! Go Brewery Runners!