Marathon du Medoc: Running France’s long-distance drinking race
Marathon drinking session —
The Medoc Marathon, held on on September 13, 2014, will see 10,000 competitors strive to run 26 miles and sample as many glasses of wine as they can handle.
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Sailing a sea of wine —
The Medoc Marathon takes runners through scenic vineyards and country lanes of a pretty, wine-producing region near Bordeaux.
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Racing to the next drink —
The increasing popularity of the Medoc Marathon means competitors face an online scramble for a place. Many race competitively to win prizes of ... yep, wine.
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Dance breaks —
Impromptu dance breaks are an essential part of the race for many taking part in the Medoc Marathon.
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World of wine —
Last year, 3,300 runners from 53 different nations -- including Japan, Canada and Australia -- joined 5,200 competitors from across France in the Medoc Marathon.
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Glass half full —
The run is nicknamed "the longest marathon in the world," in reference to the many wines on offer to sidetrack runners. Average times are far slower than usual marathons, but no one seems to care.
Bryan Pirolli
Galloping gourmets —
Steak, ice cream and oysters are some of the more lavish refreshments offered to runners of the Medoc Marathon.
Bryan Pirolli
Limber up, then drink up —
Marathon organizers lay on extra water stations and medical provisions to help runners cope with the rigors of a boozy run.