Brew Run Draws Over 1,300 Runners

BREWSTER – Anyone familiar with Brewster knows about the Brew Run. 

The 5.2-mile race was started 47 years ago by Tom Meagher — track star, coach and Boston Marathon finish line coordinator — as an opportunity to host a “wonderful town day in Brewster.” Today, it’s more than just a town day. It’s an iconic summer event that draws runners from across the country. 

On Saturday, 1,370 runners packed the starting line on Route 6A. On the sidelines, local residents and visitors set up beach chairs, brought out snack tables and prepared to cheer on the participants as they sprinted past. 

Proceeds from the race are donated to the Brewster Rescue/Firefighters Association, which also sponsors the event. Members of the department staff the five official water stations along the route. 

Meagher also collaborates with the Woodshed. Originally, he reached out to Peter Murphy, former owner of the Woodshed, because the location and parking accommodations were perfect for his preferred loop. Today, he still works with the new owner, Andy Murphy. 

The race starts and finishes close to the Woodshed, so many of the runners meet family and friends back at the bar for drinks. 

Meagher said he’s had multiple Cape Cod groups approach him to take over the run. 

“I really feel like I can’t give it up,” he said. “I love it so much.”