It’s not what you’d usually expect to find at the average Sunday morning half-marathon, but then there is nothing very usual about the Bacchus.
For those in the know, this legendary Marathon and Half Marathon, hosted annually by Denbies vineyard near Dorking in Surrey, which grows and cultivates the Bacchus grape, has always been a must-do event. It’s 2500 places always disappear as quickly as the award-winning English wines they serve at the six drinks stations on each lap of the course. Fancy dress is de rigueur, live bands and entertainment play throughout the day and it’s no surprise that this is one race that few runners want to finish quickly.
After running, walking or stumbling around the picturesque North Downs course all finishers receive the Bacchus medal, a technical tee, free race photographs and entry to the post-race hog roast where you’ll have one more chance to sample a glass of wine.
This year’s race is on 10 September, but entries usually sell out in June or July, so enter now if you want to like your wine as much as your running.
