Young entrepreneurs bring beach valet services to Clearwater

CLEARWATER, Fla. (FOX 13) - Two young entrepreneurs have been given a six-month trial period to test out their business on one of America's best beaches.

Spencer Labarbera and Ryan Barca, both 22 years old, started Sand Runners on Treasure Island two years ago. 

While some hit the sand with just the essentials, Labarbera and Barca know many beach-goers travel with everything under the sun.

The friends decided to use their muscle, positive attitudes, and 20-something energy to help relieve beach-goers from the stressful task of carrying heavy gear like umbrellas, chairs, and coolers, and then having to set it up.

"We take all kinds of things. We've stacked this wagon with at least five coolers, just in itself, or at least 16 chairs," said Labarbera, who added that it's an honor to get the opportunity to showcase Sand Runners and its potential on Clearwater Beach.

Earlier this month, the city of Clearwater gave the pair the green light to temporarily expand to Clearwater Beach.

"We had a great idea and we just wanted to try it out here, see if we could make it happen," said Labarbera. "For us at least, we just work non-stop and want to give it everything we can, and then a little bit more after that."

Rates vary from $7 for one-way and $12 for round-trip service.

Many customers said it's worth every penny and are proud to see two young adults put their business skills to the test. 

"That's fantastic, they found an entrepreneurial opportunity and they're taking advantage of it," said J.J. Ryan, a visitor from Minnesota.

Sand Runners is located near the public parking lot near Frenchie's.

The trial period ends in September, and will proceed to a bid period, allowing other people to apply for the exclusive licensing agreement with Clearwater Beach.