The Medoc Marathon is one of the cultural events of the running scene. Being a friend of the wines of Bordeaux, it was clear to me that I had to participate in this run. The area north of Bordeaux, left of Gironde, is slightly molded. It is, overall, sparse and full of vineyards, of course. The run begins in the city Pauillac and then takes us south, through St. Julien, to Bechevelle, where we redirect ourselves north, passing Pauillac, going through St.-Estèphe and ending up in Pauillac again.
This year, the weather conditions were pretty good. It wasn't too hot (79°F/26°C), but, from time to time, a chilly head wind blew our hair back. Fun and pleasure are the priorities of this marathon. Almost all of the participants dress up and, as a runner, whoever wishes may partake of wine and other delicacies, such as oysters, cheeses and meats, at over 20 stands. Of course, record times are not in the cards. However, even those, who refuse sampling the wine on the run, get their money's worth. The atmosphere is relaxed and festive, without a trace of determined second-counting, jostling or pushing. Some of the spectators dress up too and they all cheer everyone on. The track leads past well-known chateaux, where the noble droplets are handed out stylishly, in large glasses. Bands, playing everything from reggae, to punk, to classical music, perform all around. In a nutshell: if you like wine or don't necessarily need to beat your record, you have to run the Marathon de Chateaux du Medoc at least once.

At 7:30am, 90 minutes before the race, the anticipation was great! The atmosphere at the start/finish line was awesome.

France, how we love you! Four minutes before the official (theoretical) starting time, the gate collapsed.

Everyone just chilled and waited until it was set up again.

And we're off! I was unmistakably a Pirate. I heard children yelling "Allez le pirate" at me, at least 100 times.

… he isn't dead. He's leading a contemplative life in old Europe…

… along with other unknown forms of life.

KM10, in the fair parlour of the Chateaux "Ducru Baucaillou" in Beychevelle

The reception committee at the finish line!

The most photographed person at this year's marathon. "Less is more…"

My recommendation: definitely check it out!
Many greetings,

Uwe