Marathon Where You Drink Wine And Eat Cheese Along The Way Is Back

Let's face it, no one likes running. It's hard, it's boring... there are just better ways to spend your time.

If this sounds like something you'd say, hold on one cotton-picking minute, as we might have found the solution for you - I give you the wine and cheese marathon.

Historically, marathons are among the most grueling of all endurance events, but the Marathon du Medoc in France offers runners the chance to gorge on as much vin et fromage as they want.

The route takes participants through a plethora of picturesque vineyards and estates - with a castle or two thrown in for good measure (it's France, after all).

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But as well as the standard water stations to keep runners hydrated, participants can also stop off at the occasional stall to indulge in some wine tasting sessions and cheese sampling.

And in the unlikely event that neither of these take your fancy, you can also tuck into some local ice creams, grapes and even oysters.

Though it may differ in many ways from the traditional marathon, there is one factor you may recognise: fancy dress.

Every year, thousands set off in their best costumes - whether it's bottles of wine, vikings or even aliens, it's an eclectic mix of characters, with the best dressed receiving a prize.

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Runners are given six and a half hours to complete the course, which organisers say is more than enough time for even amateur runners to enjoy the scenery, as well as a glass or two.

Though it may sound like a bit of a laugh - it really does - you should remember that it's still a marathon at the end of the day - that's 26.2 miles, so probably wise to take it easy with the booze if you want to make it over the finish line.

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And it's not all about the alcohol. Set in the south-west of the country, it's the perfect opportunity for participants to enjoy the incredible views, discover some historic sites, and even enjoy some live music from bands who perform during the race.

The winners in both the male and female categories are awarded their weight in Medoc wines, while the first three in each category will also receive a case of fine wine.

The race takes place on 7 September - for more information, click here.

Topics: SPORT, Food, World News, Marathon, Funny, Interesting, Alcohol, France, Weird

Dominic Smithers

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

@SmithersDom