TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Free Runners community in Bandung has apologized for distributing free beer to half marathon participants in Bandung last Sunday.
Through their social media account, the running community also clarified the incident that caused an uproar. "But it seems like that is not enough for netizens," said the head of Freerunners Bandung, Santi, to Tempo, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
The free beer distribution started with members of the Freerunners Bandung participating in a running event sponsored by a beverage product. They set up a spot in front of the book store on Merdeka Street, or 500 meters before the finish line, to cheer on the participants.
Santi explained that two days before the race, their community received a partnership offer from a travel agent who was a supporting partner of the running event. The company supported the community by providing a table, audio equipment, and also beer at the cheering zone. "We realized that it was a mistake and we were negligent in allowing them to bring alcoholic drinks," she said.
The Freerunners Bandung community distributed beer that had been poured into clear plastic cups to the runners. They also displayed a sign that read 'Grab Your Beer'. "Those who want it can take it, those who don't want it don't have to. We didn't force anyone at all," said Santi.
Santi admitted that there were runners who took and drank the yellowish liquid, mistaking it for a vitamin drink. Some also thought it was tea.
As a result of the incident, the Freerunners Bandung community received criticism and public scrutiny. "Actually, there are pros and cons, but there are more cons," said Santi.
The Freerunners Bandung community plans to meet with the organizers of the running event to discuss the case. According to her, the community has also explained the chronology of the beer distribution to Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan. "They said this is a matter for the community to resolve on their own."
Former members of the Freerunners Bandung who formed the Run Revolutions community, Ardi Darmawan, was shocked by the beer distribution at the running event. He hoped that the issue would not tarnish the image of runners and their community.
"I hope people do not generalize the community because each group has its own background," he said. He also urged the running community in Bandung to continue their activities as usual and not be affected by excessive media coverage.
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