It has become a tradition. For the 11th year in succession, runners from all over France and the world will be descending on Blaye to discover the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux vineyard. On the agenda for the weekend of 10 and 11 May: sweat, dressing up and a lot of fun in the company of the appellation’s winegrowers !

Through the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux vineyard

They all have trainers on their feet, but some of them may be wearing a Batman mask or a clown’s wig or something even more outlandish. It’s a rather unusual marathon that’s taking place in Blaye this Saturday. People come not just for the pleasure of running but also to have a good time. Created in 2004, the race offers an opportunity to discover the Blaye region and its vineyard in a thoroughly festive atmosphere. “We are taking part in the Conviviality Challenge and are well-placed”, says Sylvie Slodezyk, president of the association which organises the Blaye Wines Marathon, with pride.

The race will take the runners to 12 châteaux and 14 villages, all in party mode, with over 30 wine-tastings on offer along the route, to say nothing of the impromptu stands offering cannelés (a local delicacy) and other goodies. The race starts and finishes in the exceptional surroundings of the Blaye Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. “But just because it’s a fun occasion doesn’t mean it isn’t hard. It is a marathon after all, and Côtes means hills!” points out Sylvie Slodezyk, sounding a note of warning.

A shorter 10-km race is also organised for runners who don’t feel up to tackling a full marathon. Called the 10 km des Vignes, it allows a wider range of participants to fully experience the party atmosphere.

Winegrowers at the centre of the marathon

As well as being a proper race, the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux Wines Marathon is also a lot of fun. Much of the festive atmosphere is due to the dedication of the volunteers and the appellation’s winegrowers. “The Blaye Wines Marathon is a family event, for the helpers and the 14 villages which the route runs through”, says Sylvie Slodezyk. Many of them see the race as an opportunity to decorate their streets. A post-race lunch is organised on the Saturday, at which the runners are offered oysters and a glass of Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux white. Franck Blanchard, from Château La Botte, will be supplying his white wine, typical of the appellation: “The 2013 is mostly Sauvignon, with 20% Semillon. It’s very fresh on the palate, with lingering grapefruit notes which go very well with seafood.” Franck Blanchard loves the “all-round good humour” and will be happy to welcome you at Château La Botte on the Sunday morning for breakfast, a walk around the vineyard and a tasting of white and red wines, giving visitors an opportunity to put a face to these Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux wines.

Watch the video of the 2013 Blaye Wines Marathon !