DURANGO, Colo. – In support of the Annual Steamworks-Animas Valley Half-Marathon set for June 20, Star Liquors has teamed up with Steamworks Brewing Co. to raise funds for the Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship.

Star Liquors is highlighting Steamworks’ brews as “Beer of the Month” for June, with $0.50 of each 6-pack, 12-pack or 22 oz. bomber bottle of Steamworks beer sold contributed to the Witkes Scholarship. Proceeds from the Steamworks-Animas Valley Half-Marathon also benefit the fund.

“Cyclists get a great deal of attention in Durango , but we’ve got a lot of runners here and Marc understood that,” said Kris Oyler, Steamworks CEO, of Witkes, an avid runner and former president of Durango Motorless Transit. “Stan Crapo, owner of Star Liquors is a runner, as am I, so we thought this would be a great way to honor Marc’s memory.”

The Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship is presented annually to a Four Corners area cross country runner attending Fort Lewis College . Witkes, passed away Dec. 10, 2006, less than 300 yards from the finish line at the Tucson Marathon.

“This is a win-win for everyone,” said Stan Crapo, Star Liquors owner. “We’re delighted to be able to help support this effort, and hope by the end of June we will announce an impressive contribution to the scholarship fund. What that will mean, however, is that the community has come out and participated. That will be terrific.”

In 2008, the Steamworks-Animas Valley Half Marathon and its supporters contributed $2,000 to the Marc Witkes fund. Organizers hope that with the additional support from Star Liquors, the dollars will increase.

Registration for the half-marathon is now underway at www.active.com, and event participation will be capped at 300 runners. Early registration is $30 per runner ($40 on race day pending space availability). Racers receive a finisher’s medal, Steamworks pint glass and “performance” T-shirt, plus the post race craft beer and burger barbecue (catered by Steamworks) at the Durango Sports Club. Participants also enjoy Sports Club privileges for the day, including use of the swimming pool. 

Star Liquors is located in the new commercial complex at the corner of East Animas and Florida Road, Building C, Suite 100 (970.247.2258). For further information, visit starliquorsdurango.com.