Running of Bull steps off in Dewey Beach
A predicted rainy forecast did not keep away the crowds in Dewey Beach for the 22nd Annual Running of the Bull, sponsored by The Starboard.
Despite the early cloudy weather, children and their families gathered on the Dagsworthy Street Beach for the Kids Run with the Bull - two men dressed in a large bull costume draped in The Starboard logo.
The festivities began at 10:30, when children were given free T-shirts for the special event by the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce. Two special guests joined the fun, including Washington Capitals Mascot “Slapshot,” who has had quite the busy year with the newly-crowned Stanley Cup Champions, and the Starboard Shark mascot. Children were able to get their photos taken with both mascots, and were treated to a dance party.
Prior to the official race, candy was thrown into the crowd of children as they danced along to “YMCA” and “Mexican Hat Dance.” The inspiration for this annual event is based on the famous nine-day Running of the Bulls that takes place each July in Pamplona, Spain.
The time had come for the run to begin, excitement rose in each child’s eyes as the bull slowly appeared from behind the sand dunes. Kids lined up at the starting line, waiting for the bull to “be released.” At the count of three, the children were off as the bull followed them around a small course in the sand.
The Kids Run with the Bull wrapped up with the wrangling of the bull by lucky “matadors” who enticed the bull with the classic red sheet.
Back at The Starboard, the party was underway as runners prepared for the afternoon. The streets were painted red as many wore classic red and white colors, themed costumes.
The Starboard was a sea of red, as everyone gathered in front of a large stage where the band “Kristen and the Noise” along with a DJ pumped everyone up for the main event.
“Year after year, I’m shocked and delighted that what started as a silly little sight gag has become an annual gathering spot for friends and families. In this day and age, it’s nice to have some nonsense and madness turn into a great time, not a frustrating headline,” said Bull Run Founder Michael McDonnell, who was on hand to join in the revelry while focusing on how the event has brought people and families together over the year to enjoy a positive event.
Runners were then asked to make their way down the street to the beach entrance where the bull was waiting to chase them. Blocks of people created quite the sight upon walking down the street while onlookers cheered on everyone who was taking part in a classic Dewey Beach tradition.
Upon making it to the beach, everyone began running or walking right along the shoreline as the Bull followed in pursuit. Families and children even gave runners high fives as they passed and handed out water, ice pops and small American flags. The crowd on the beach and energy present was unmatched.
After the run, it was time for the bull fight where The Matador, Jimmy O’Connor, from Woody’s Grille, was appropriately dressed in black velvet and gold trim as he entered the ring wielding a red, plastic shovel. Giving the bull virtually no time to enter the ring and take a hello lap, O’Connor used the matador’s flag as a sword and quickly impaled the bull.
“This day is a coordinated effort between The Starboard, The Town of Dewey Beach, the Dewey Beach Police, The Delaware State Police, DelDOT, The Rehoboth Volunteer Fire Company, and The Dewey Beach Lifeguards. We work together to make this silly, fun, and entertaining day a wonderful experience for all who partake, and we are really thankful to be 22 years in, and able to donate to a great cause at the end of the day,” said Steve “Monty” Montgomery.
Each year the event raises thousands of dollars for a chosen organization, and this year it was once again the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company.
For more information on the event and additional coverage, visit: therunningofthebull.com.
