Gwynn’s Island Raw Bar Run
Gwynn’s Island Race Details
April 4, 2026
12th Annual Event continues the partnership between The Hatchery x Mathews Outdoor Club!
About the Raw Bar Race
The 12th annual race is back with our re-branded name Gwynn’s Island Raw Bar Run. The event is featuring a shoreline 5k course, an all-new location & vibe, and a waterfront post-race celebration. This year, we’re the action is back at the historic Callis Wharf, where participants will run along the stunning Piankatank River and Milford Haven, soaking in the best waterfront views Gwynn’s Island has to offer.
Race map below 
Hosted by The Hatchery x Mathews Outdoor Club
New Location at Oyster Seed Holdings/The Hatchery. 425 Callis Wharf Rd, Grimstead, VA
Post Race Celebration: Live music & Free oyster raw bar for runners. The Food Truck will be open for lunch serving food & beverages, so stay and order some lunch, oysters, and enjoy some music by the water. Limited picnic tables available, bring a chair.
Registration
Registration is $30 and opens in early 2026, closes March 27. No race day registration.
What’s Included: 5K Race Route along the shoreline: Views of the water, wharfs, the Island bridge & marina! Post Race Celebration and some swag!
3 Age Groups: Under 40, 40-59, Over 60. Awards for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place male and female finishers in each bracket.
Perks in your packet: Stickers & magnet, wristband access to free oyster raw bar, 1 free beer ticket for ages 21+, $5 gift voucher for a future visit to the Hatchery Food Truck.
**1m Spat Run for family members of race participants
Parking
Parking is limited at The Hatchery. We strongly encourage carpooling. RUNNERS WILL BE ISSUED A PARKING PASS for themselves (or their carpool) for the event and spectators are not guaranteed parking. If you’d like to bring family & friends, they should carpool with you or they may be turned away until we know there is enough space for our runners.
Help us keep our wonderful neighbors happy and please pick up your trash and leave no trace behind in parking areas.
T-shirt Preorders featuring local artist!
One-of-a-kind event shirts are not included in the registration, but we are excited to be partnering with artists every year to create special annual swag for the event! This year’s t-shirts will be made my Maria-Emilia.
Preordering has ended. Limited shirts will be available at the race for sale at full price.
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Gwynn’s Island Raw Bar Run
2026 Highlights: New Artist & Same Venue
Race Details
Road run
Starting and ending on Callis Wharf Road on Gwynn’s Island, the route follows the waterfront road along the Piankatank River toward the bridge. The race course is 3.1 miles and the cost is $30.
Race Start
The race will go “on” unless there is a major weather event – the start time is subject to change depending on weather (if we need to wait out a quick shower, 30 mins max). The run starts at 10:00AM.
Awards
1st, 2nd & 3rd place male and female finishers will be recognized and receive an award in 3 age brackets: Under 40, 40-59, and 60 and older.
What our runners are saying
“Just want to say thank you for putting on a great local event. You provided options for both disciplines. The course was perfect for this. We stayed at the campground and what an awesome view. It’s nice to go to a race and really feel the locals are glad you came.”
Glenn & Monique Y, 2022 Gwynn’s Island Race
“I am a first time participant at your event who ran the 4 mile race and please let me say I will definitely return! So many reasons to like your race. The wonderful small race atmosphere, the pre race prayer and Our National Anthem. A simple photo link for allowing us all to see ourselves and others participating without having to pay for the privilege. Thank you and your volunteers for a job very well done!”
Pete C, 2023 Gwynn’s Island Race
Other EVENT Facts
Strollers & Pets are permitted on the race course. Just note: Mathews is a rural county and does not have a leash law. It’s possible you may see a four-legged resident along the course. No dog issues have arisen during the history of our event but awareness is always appreciated.
Mathews County Visitors
Learn more about the area by visiting the Mathews Visitor Information website at visitmathews.com. which also includes a full calendar of events and recommended places to eat & stay during your visit. The Gwynn’s Island Museum is just one of the county’s historic sites conveniently located a mile from race location.
Mathews Outdoor Club 