The Médoc Marathon combines a full 42.195-kilometre race with a journey through the vineyards and châteaux around Pauillac. Its 40th edition on September 6 brought together 8,500 runners, many in costumes inspired by the 1980s, the decade in which the event began.
According to VnExpress, organisers provided around 20 wine-tasting stops alongside 22 water stations. The much-discussed figure of 4,500 litres refers to the previous year's wine consumption, with a similar amount expected this time. Oysters, cheese and other food also featured along the route.
The festive atmosphere did not remove the sporting challenge. Participants still had to finish within six hours and 30 minutes, and 7,849 were recorded as completing the course. Florian Laplanche won the men's race in 2:26:45, while Celine Merel led the women's field in 2:54:38.
The prizes reflected the surrounding wine region. Instead of cash, each winner received Médoc wine equivalent in weight to their own body. That tradition has been part of the event since its first edition in 1985, giving the competition a local identity that extends beyond its finish line.