Words & Pictures by Eric Howieson
The Bootleggers Run was held over a three day weekend in early June with drivers experiencing over 1,000 miles of amazing Texas roads. The atmosphere was electric as the rally began early Friday morning in downtown Dallas with drivers checking in and finalizing instructions for the day. From there the runners headed south winding their way to checkpoints to learn of the next segment of the route.
Checkpoints offered runners the chance to discover the next segment of the route and also opportunities to take in local shops in more rural locations across the state. The end of the first day found us at the Circuit of the America’s (COTA) in Austin, TX for go carting, food, and a guided tour of the track. The big finish for the day found the runners on track doing laps at America’s only purpose built F1 track.
After a great nights rest at the J. W. Marriott in downtown Austin, runners met at the Oasis restaurant for a relaxing breakfast with a beautiful view overlooking Lake Travis. From there, the days run was on heading out into the scenic and inviting Texas Hill Country. The Three Sisters were a fitting match for the horsepower running through their twists and turns. The roads of the Hill Country never disappoint. Saturday came to a close with runners gathering at the Hangar Hotel in Fredericksburg, TX. Catered dining and great conversations about the day’s drive made for a fine finish to the day.
Sunday found the rally heading back north down more great roads and through quaint Texas towns. The destination was Fort Worth, TX and a casual catered dinner at the Flying Saucer in downtown. Some amazing hand crafted awards were given out to close out the event.
The inaugural Bootleggers Run was a great success all around and left all participants looking forward to next years bigger and better adventure.
Are you ready to run?