There's a marathon that treats runners to wine and cheese — while they run through a scenic route
Running a marathon is a big decision, especially for those who are not used to it and don't have a particular liking for running. Having to prepare for running 26.6 miles is no easy task. But one particular marathon called Marathon du Medoc in France might just motivate you to take a flight just so you can participate.
Why? Because they've put their own style and it's one you won't want to miss. The Guardian tells you why. The marathon, held in Bordeaux, France, takes participating runners through a route that involves a number of vineyards, estates, and castles. Some of the places en route include celebrated estates such as Pauillac, St. Julien-Beychevelle and St. Estèphe, and past more than 50 chateaux.
And as is tradition, to make sure that runners don't become dehydrated, water stations are set up at various points on the route. Pretty standard if you think about it. But there is a French twist that will make it so much better. Those "water" stations have something a bit more substantial and treat-worthy - wine and cheese! You heard right. When participating in the Marathon du Medoc, you can take advantage of the certain stalls that allow you to try various wines and different types of cheese. And that is not all. You will get a chance to experience something that is not found in your usual marathons. You will find stalls offering delicious foods like steaks, cheese, grapes, ice cream, and oysters!
If that isn't incentive enough, this might pump you up. The winners for the male and female categories will be rewarded with their weight in Medoc wines, while the top three in each category will also be given a case of fine wine, according to Metro UK.
But it isn't just a feast for your mouth. It's a feast for nearly all the senses. There are musical performances set up across the route and since it is held in the southwest of France, there are stunning views and historic sites that can please your visual senses.
If you thought that was all, be prepared for this next bit. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their weirdest, fanciest and quirkiest costumes as they walk/jog/run on the set route. And the person donning the best outfit will win a prize! For the 2019 marathon, the chosen theme for fancy dress is "superheroes," according to the Daily Mail. However, the race ends after six hours and 30 minutes, which organizers state is "long enough to enjoy the marathon even for a beginner." At the end of the race, the celebrations include more band performances and have local producers and caterers provide additional food and drink. It sounds more like a festival with a healthy spin on it. For entry into the marathon, runners will have to pay €88 (£75 or $98) for a start number. If they choose to take part in an extra dinner or a shorter, six-mile walk on the Sunday morning after the race, there will be some further costs.
In order to make sure everyone stays safe, 300 volunteers will be on hand to provide medical assistance in 15 tents and five mobile units, catering for the runners' unusual dietary regime. This year's race will take place on Saturday, September 7. Ready to take on this interesting marathon?