Will Run for Wine!

Only if someone is chasing me.

Only when the elliptical is broken at the gym.

You went how far?!

I hate everything. Are we almost done?

This seemed like a good idea at the time…

There’s wine at the end?!

Not everyone gets running. Not everyone likes running. But the second someone says there’s wine at the end, suddenly, it can sound like a GREAT idea. That’s where Running Between the Vines comes in!

Over a few decades of organizing running events, we’ve learned that humans aren’t always motivated by the sheer desire for fitness. Spent legs and a dripping brow don’t appeal to everyone. But it’s amazing to see almost 2,000 participants who have decided, each for their own reasons, that running (or walking!) sounds like a good idea when there’s a wine party at the end.

We’ve seen bachelorette parties, birthday gatherings, anniversary celebrations, and even a bridal party starting wedding day off with a 5K­–what a unique way to begin that special day! My favorite stories sound something like, “This race helped me come to like running. I was willing to run for wine!”

The sixth Running Between the Vines will take place Saturday, August 17 at gorgeous Sandhill Crane Vineyards right here in Jackson, MI. We’ll host participants in the 5K, 5 Mile and Half Marathon, as well as runners completing both the 5K and 5 Mile (about eight miles total) to finish the Cellar Slam and earn extra swag!

Finishers of all distances receive a 3-inch coaster medal, along with a commemorative stemless wine glass they can use right away, toasting their achievements at wine stations pouring tastes and glasses of Sandhill red, white and rosé. Later in the morning, we’ll salute age group award winners, and clink glasses with Half Marathon finishers lounging in the grass. The party will feature delicious treats from Mindo Chocolate Makers, Zingerman’s Creamery, Zingerman’s Bakehouse, Aleko’s and Jerusalem Garden, with the Sandhill Crane Vineyards Café opening mid-morning for anyone looking to enjoy their menu inside or on the verandah.

Want to make a weekend of it? Check out Experience Jackson’s suggestions for local hotels and bed-and-breakfasts. Race morning becomes a breeze when you stay nearby! On Friday, August 16, Sandhill Crane Vineyards will once again host a pre-race packet pickup party, as well as a Winemaker’s Dinner (limited seating, reservations required. Reservations close Friday, August 9) featuring four delectable courses paired carefully with Sandhill wines.

Will Run for Wine weekend is almost upon us, and we hope to see you there! For more information about the race and to register, visit runvines.com. Cheers!

Lizzy Bayoff is a runner and member of the RF Events staff, who organize Running Between the Vines at Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson. She’s still learning about the world of wine but keeps finding that Michigan varieties are some of her favorites!

Photo Credits: Robert Bowden Photography robertbowdenphoto.com

Published Date: August 12, 2019