Boobs 'n' Beer 5K on tap in new location

SANDPOINT — It is that time of year again to support the boobs and drink the beer with the fourth annual Boobs ‘n’ Beer 5K fun run and Oktoberfest celebration.

The event, hosted by 7B Women, raises funds for Celebrate Life and Community Cancer Services.

“We are thrilled to be able to donate back to these two incredible organizations,” said Jenn Markwardt with 7B Women. “They do so much for those affected by cancer in our community. Just the opportunity to get to put on an event that is so lighthearted in nature, but really serious in its mission is just a real honor for us as an organization.”

Last year alone, the event raised $20,000, and Markwardt said as they have surpassed their sponsorship goal, they expect to raise even more this year.

There is one big change for Boobs ‘n’ Beer this year as it will be held at Matchwood Brewing. In the past, the run has started and ended at City Beach, with people making their way afterward to the celebration at MickDuff’s Beer Hall on Cedar Street.

“They (MickDuff’s) have been incredible partners and we are so grateful for everything they did for us,” Markwardt said. “We wanted to simplify the event a bit, and be able to start and end the race from one location.”

Matchwood offers that ability, she said, as the runners, walkers and strollers can leave from the brewing company and hit the Sandpoint-Dover Community Trail. Markwardt said TraffiCorp will be out managing the roadways at stop signs so that people have a “really nice running experience.” With the start and finish line, as well as the Oktoberfest celebration, to be at Matchwood, it will serve as the central location for the entire event.

“And one of the really phenomenal things that Matchwood has done as a partner is to brew us our very own beer,” Markwardt said.

The beer is named Dopplebock, and $2 from every beer sold will be donated to the cause, with an opportunity to raise $4,000 by the time the batch sells out.

“So whether you are attending the event or just at Matchwood grabbing a beer, if you choose the Dopplebock you will have the opportunity to get a little pink slip where you can write words of encouragement for those affected by cancer or put a note of someone that you lost,” Markwardt said, adding that all of the slips will be hung up in Matchwood to create a “pink wall.”

The celebration at the brewing company will feature live music by “The Powers,” as well as a “Kidz’ Zone” for the youngsters with face painting, bounce houses, a magician and more.

Markwardt said they encourage everyone to come, whether they want to do the race or not.

“You do not have to run in the race to participate — stop by Matchwood, grab a beer and eat some food,” she said, adding that there will be place for a point-of-sale donation. “Every bit of participation helps us raise money for the cause.”

The Boobs ‘n’ Beer 5K starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, and registration opens at 9 a.m. Oktoberfest costumes or dressing in pink to support cancer awareness are encouraged.

Registration is $45 and includes a beer for the 21 and older crowd, as well as a bratwurst and a T-shirt. The cost for kids 12 and under is $10. Late registration is $55 for adults and $15 for kids, effective as of 10 p.m. Sept. 19.

For information and online registration, visit 7bwomen.com/boobs-n-beer-1. Online registration closes at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20. Packet pick up and in-person registration opportunities will be available from 3-6 p.m. Sept. 20, as well as the morning of the race.

Mary Malone can be reached by email at mmalone@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow her on Twitter @MaryDailyBee.