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The Wine Country Half Marathon series consists of boutique destination
running races held in scenic wine regions, complimented by wine, food and
entertainment driven activities. Thousands of runners and wine enthusiasts
are expected to join the Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon in Loudoun
County, Virginia, located within 60 miles of Washington DC.
"We pride
ourselves in designing some of the most scenic point-to-point road courses
in the world. Each is unique in its characteristics but all wind through the
back roads of popular wine regions and finish with our trademark Wine &
Music Festival. We restrict our fields to 3,000 or less runners so we can
offer a more exclusive destination experience and the finest in wine country
hospitality. We are also proud of our affiliation with national and regional
charity partners who've raised millions for important causes," said Matt
Dockstader, President of Destination Races.
The Virginia Wine Country
Half Marathon course begins at Breaux Vineyards in Hillsboro and is set on
Virginia scenic byways, many of which follow the same historic routes they
did when they were chartered centuries ago. Featuring stunning vistas, the
route meanders past historic farms, along rolling vineyards and farmland and
under tree-canopied country lanes. The 13.1 mile course ends at Doukénie
Winery, site of the post-race Wine & Music Festival where runners join
family and friends to enjoy food, entertainment, the awards ceremony, and
wine tasting from Loudoun's finest vintners.
"We are so excited to be
working with Destination Races to bring this race to Loudoun, which will
introduce our destination to a whole new audience of wine travelers who seek
recreational experiences in scenic locations," said Jeremy Harvey, vice
president of destination marketing for Visit Loudoun. "The Virginia Wine
Country Half Marathon is an integral component of Visit Loudoun's efforts to
position Loudoun, Virginia as DC's Wine Country, and the must-see wine
destination on the East Coast."
A full slate of activities kick off
around the first weekend in June with a welcome reception in Washington DC,
culminating with a finishers celebration at Tarara Winery on Saturday
evening. Lansdowne Resort has previously hosted of the race expo, and most
events are open to the public.
By Leroy Worley
Go to the Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon website for full event details and registration.
To plan your trip and learn more
about area events, attractions, and getaway options go to the Visit Loudoun website.