Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I am receiving a free race entry in exchange for writing a post about the Grape Gallop, an honest review of my experience at Grape Gallop in May, and another post of Grape Gallop in the fall.
When you think of race that pairs wine tasting with running, you think Napa Valley Marathon or the famed Medoc Marathon in France. But New Jersey?
Course Map
Admittedly I was surprised when I found out about the Grape Gallop at Alba Vineyard in Milford, New Jersey. The Grape Gallop is a 2-mile & 3.5 mile race that winds around the gorgeous vineyard. Once racers have completed their cross-country trek over hills, trails, and grass, they celebrate their accomplishment over tasting various wines made by Alba Vineyard. In addition to wine tasting, race swag includes a stemless glass, a tote bag, and a race shirt. Not a drinker? Well, there’s a lower race free for the designated driver.
Why go to New Jersey for this race? If you like running and drinking, then this race is in the overlap of a Venn diagram.
Seriously, how can you look at the photo above and NOT want to join in with the drinking? After all, you’ve definitely earned a drink after running.
Still not convinced? Alba Vineyards is lovely vineyard. The first Grape Gallop of 2015 will be on May 9th. After a long cold winter (and pretty chilly spring), spring and warm weather will finally be here in the East Coast by May. If you live in the city, it may be a lovely weekend to head out to the countryside to enjoy some clean air and quiet country space. If you can’t make that May weekend, the second Grape Gallop will be happening on Oct 10th. As you can see below, you can enjoy the gorgeous fall colors at that time of year.
Alba Vineyard in fall
The Grape Gallop can make you feel good in other ways, other than the happy feeling of a pleasant wine-induced buzz. The proceeds of this race will go to Oasis, a non-profit organization that helps women and children in poverty by providing food, youth development programs, and adult education classes. In many ways I know many of us are blessed with good fortune in our lives or have benefited from other people’s graciousness. Participating in races that benefits charitable organizations is one way that we can help our community.
I’m really excited that I was asked to be a part of Grape Gallop. I’ll be there at Alba Vineyard on May 9th and then Alba Vineyard’s award winning wines after the 2 mile fun run. If you’re feeling up for a longer run, you can sign up to do the longer 3.5 mile run. If you’re feeling competitive, the overall male and female winner will receive an award. If you’re not sure that you’re *that* competitive, the Oct Grape Gallop will be a race with chip timing, so you can go for an age group award.
Come join me!
The early bird registration fee (until April 16th) is $50 (includes wine tasting). Hurry!
The pre-registration registration fee (until May 7th) is $55.
The day of registration fee is $60.
For more information, go here to Grape Gallop.
All photos except for the Venn diagram came from the Grape Gallop site.
A Fast Paced Life 
Love the diagram! If only I were closer…
Angie, come visit. I give you wine and Cronuts.
You had me at cronuts.
THIS is my kind of race! I wish I could join you for it!
I’ll have a glass for you.
I have yet to do a vineyard run but really want to! They look like so much fun!
It’ll be my first one. I’m looking forward to being out and enjoying spring (if it ever comes back).