Harpoon – 192 Kolsch Coming To Bottles / Pan-Mass Challenge

Brewed by Harpoon brewer and longtime PMC rider Jaime Schier, Harpoon 192 is an American interpretation of the traditional Kölsch style. A medium-bodied golden ale with an assertive hop character and just a hint of citrus, it’s the perfect post-ride beer.

Over the 16 years we’ve been involved with the PMC, we’ve gotten to know Billy Starr, Founder and Executive Director of the PMC. Billy has dedicated 35 years to fundraising for cancer research through the PMC. Since the ride began in 1980, the PMC has raised $455 million for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! We asked Billy to share some of his thoughts on the ride…and the beer:

What do you look forward to most about the ride each year?
I look forward to being among the PMC community, a 2-day moving, living experience. It is always so very positive.

Was there one ride or year that was especially memorable for you?
Last year was pretty memorable – wonderful memories of people smiling thru a 60 degree soaking cold rain. I’ll never forget it…and, I hope, we never repeat it!

Is there anything new at the PMC this year that you’re excited about (ahem, Harpoon 192?)
Obviously the beer, Harpoon 192, the wine 192 Red Wine Blend, the new PMC app, the extended 1 hour Opening Ceremonies’ on WBZ-TV and the fact that both Governor Baker and Boston ‘s Mayor Walsh will be riding for the first time.

Why do you think there’s such a natural affinity between cycling and great beer?
Beer & cycling: as good as beer tastes on a day-to-day basis, I believe that, after cycling – or any sport – the taste and sense of reward is accentuated for all the right reasons. “My work is done…this is a tasteful reward.”

When you get to the finish line at the PMC, what beer do you look forward to having and why?
I go for the Harpoon IPA. The servers in Provincetown are wonderful and welcoming. Given my state-of- mind…I appreciate that I don’t have to put a whole lot of thought into it!