In an ambitious effort to prove that January doesn’t need to be miserable, Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn is hosting a one-off ‘beerathon’ five kilometre running event, with participants earning an award-winning beer once they cross the finish line.
Scheduled for this weekend – specifically Saturday 11th January, starting 11am at the Innis & Gunn Lothian Road Taproom – the run will be led by UK Athletics running coach Mark Baxter, and attended by former Olympian and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Lynsey Sharp.
Organisers promise that this ‘Innis & Runn’ will follow an ‘easy’ 5km route around Edinburgh – while mapping out a pint shape on the Strava running app.
Crucially, once those kilometres are done, there will then be a complimentary 4.6% – or alcohol-free – lager prize for every brave soul who takes part.
This one-off running club is the basis of the latest episode of Innis & Gunn’s online mockumentary series, which showcases the brewer’s real-life employees, including founder Dougal Sharp and commercial director Crawford Sinclair, alongside guest comedians Paul Dockery and Katie McKenzie.
Founder and master brewer Dougal Sharp said: “The way we socialise is always evolving, but one thing remains constant – the timeless tradition of bonding over a pint, alcoholic or not, still reigns supreme.
“But things are changing, and we’ve noticed the rise in running clubs – and we want to be part of that. Innis & Runn is the perfect opportunity to get moving this January, connect with others, and build new bonds.”
Scottish comedian Dockery was filmed devising the plan for Innis & Runn in the mockumentary.
He said: “Typically, I’m more of a pint-drinker than a pint runner, but I’m out to change the habit of a lifetime. New Year, new me – well at least on Saturday anyway.
“I’m looking forward to putting on a pair of my shortest shorts to stride the streets with my new found buddies – all for the reward of a sweet, sweet pint of Innis & Gunn’s award-winning lager. And I wasn’t even paid to say that.”
Lynsey Sharp, who hails from Edinburgh and became the European Champion in the 800 metres, running in the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, made the serious point that participating in group events gives people the motivation to start running.
“Your running journey can feel overwhelming at first, but kicking it off with likeminded people can make all the difference,” said Lynsey. “You create a community and have people there cheering you on, and that has a huge impact on not only your confidence, but motivation.
“Whether you’re a novice or just looking for a fun event to brighten up your January, it’s sure to be a great morning.”
Sign up to the Innis & Runn Run Club here.
