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Jeff Kirk and Charles Cooper of Hair of the DoG Bottle Shop serve up brews to patrons.
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DoG Street Pub's Alonzo Boone (left) is the go-to guy for the DoG Street Pub Running Club participants. Runner Tony Aviles (right) is an active member of the running club.
While most people dread Mondays, the day has become one of Thomas Tate’s favorite days of the week thanks to his participation in the DoG Street Pub Running Club.
Since DoG Street Pub established the running club three years ago, Tate, 46, has run nearly every Monday. Tate, who lives in Newport News, decided to give the club a try in an effort to lose weight and get in shape.
“I enjoy it because it is a stress relief,” said Tate. “I love it because of the people and the environment that the DoG Street Pub brings to it. The people are awesome, and I have made many new friends.”
Two students at the College of William and Mary came up with the idea for the club while drinking and dining at DoG Street Pub one afternoon.
They approached the restaurant’s managers who embraced the idea.
“The DoG Street Pub Running Club is rooted in the love of running and the community,” explained manager Lauren Davidson. “It is the type of event you can come to every week or be a seasonal runner and be welcomed with open arms. I feel like the acceptance, and the non-competitive nature of the group makes it inviting.”
Members of the club meet Mondays at 6 p.m. for a 5K run or walk throughout Colonial Williamsburg and the campus of the College of William and Mary. Races are free and open to anyone, though those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Some who turn out are dedicated runners while others bring their dog or baby in a stroller for a nice walk downtown. The runs are held regardless of the weather.
The first Monday the club started, 17 runners came out on a cold, rainy day. Now, it has grown to more than 2,000 members. People from throughout Hampton Roads have participated as well as individuals as far away as Washington, DC.
DoG Street Pub has formed partnerships to offer incentives. Runners who reach five races receive a free T-shirt, while engraved bottle openers and glassware are handed out to those who reach 26 and 52 runs. DoG Street Pub also provides free water and deals on other beverages.
Gabrielle Lynch, 34, of James City County, has run with the club on and off for two years.
“I love that they are engaging the community to come out and exercise and meet new people,” she said. “I enjoy going to be outside, meet new people and see old friends and, of course, run. Sometimes I try to beat my best time. You can walk or run it.
Everyone is at different levels, but it’s fun and the crowd is encouraging, eclectic, and friendly.”
Davidson hopes the club will continue to grow. “Whether you are a first time 5K walker or a seasoned runner, we would love to have you out, and we welcome your feedback,” she said. “Our success is built on listening to our members and helping to design the experience that they want. Every day is a chance for a new you and we hope to be a part of your fitness goals.”