The Hatchery Hosts 1st Annual Raw Bar Run at Callis Wharf

Gwynn’s Island, VA — This past Saturday, April 26, the shores of Gwynn’s Island came alive as 135 runners gathered for the 1st Annual Gwynn’s Island Raw Bar Run, marking the 11th consecutive year of the beloved local race.

Formerly known as the Gwynn’s Island Race and previously hosted by the Mathews Outdoor Club (MOC), the event was rebranded and relocated to Callis Wharf, with a renewed focus on community, aquaculture, and the stunning waterfront that defines this beautiful Island. 

Runners were treated to a gorgeous 70-degree day and a waterfront 5K route that began and ended at Callis Wharf. The course wound along Old Ferry Road, toward the iconic bridge to Narrows Marina, and returned to the historic wharf, home to Oyster Seed Holdings.  After the race, runners and their families enjoyed craft beverages and an oyster raw bar on a breezy coastline, with live music by Market Street Music and food from The Hatchery food truck. 

A standout moment from the day included the spirited participation of a large group from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Here are Chris Gorri and Jessica Lutzow, from CBF pictured at the finish line!

Top male and female finishers of the 5k were:

• Men’s 1st Place: Walter Banfield – 17:30

• Women’s 1st Place: Haley Uliasz – 21:32

  
  

Oyster Seed Holdings wants to extend a special congratulations to Haley - who used to be the our staff aquaculture algologist and now works in VIMS' Acuff center - an oyster-loving winner all around!!!  

This year’s race was a collaboration between the Mathews Outdoor Club, which has charged outdoor community events and activities in the community since 2021, and The Hatchery, a waterfront oyster-centric food truck experience on Gwynn's Island. The Hatchery is an extension of Oyster Seed Holdings, an oyster seed hatchery that has been serving the East Coast industry for over 16 years. Together, they brought new energy and purpose to the event—joining the community's love of fitness with its maritime culture.

For more information or to stay updated on future events, visit www.thehatcheryculture.com and www.mocva.net