Having too much fun – That’s what the Half-Corked Marathon was all about in Oliver on May 23. The event was a breeding ground for good times and good wine as 1000 participants revelled in the experience. Here, a runner sporting a fairy costume hams it up for photographer Dale Cory.
Hey, let’s get married.
Where?
At the Half-Corked Marathon.
That’s exactly what a Burnaby couple did at this year’s event on May 23 in Oliver.
Marathon organizer Tony Munday said the marriage was definitely a highlight, which caused a lot of excitement at the start line and the finish line where all 1000 participants cheered for the happy couple.
Munday said the logistics of hosting the quick marriage took some planning, but they pulled it off without a “hitch.”
The couple exchanged vows at the start line at Hester Creek winery, where immediate family gathered to witness the love bond.
A wedding arch was constructed at the finish line.
Munday used one word to describe the actual marathon: Fantastic!
“It went so well; people had a great time.”
In fact, Munday said there were more than two million social media impressions of the event. There was almost no end to people posting comments about the experience.
Amber Dunn wrote: “What a fantastic race this was! I have ran marathons, ultra marathons, mud races, and obstacle races, but by far this was the most amazing experience!”
Soreena Rogers said she had a blast.
“What a great event! Had fun, met lots of great people . . . such a great vibe. Everyone did an amazing job at organizing this . . . the wineries, volunteers . . . everything was perfect!”
For Munday, the best thing was being able to smoothly jockey 1000 people through the start line.
The organizer admitted that the event won’t get any bigger next year, noting they have “hit a critical mass” with participants.
Munday noted they filled up almost every accommodation available in Oliver and Osoyoos last weekend.
This year’s race sponsors were fantastic, Munday said. For example, all the participants received a medal, thanks to sponsor Spirit Ridge.
“Clip clop, clip clop.”
What the heck is that?
It’s Search for the Holy Grape, the winner of the individual/duo category.
This was Munday’s top pick for costumes as the theme was based on Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”
Like the movie, one guy made the sound of horse hooves hitting the ground as they were travelling through the course.
The award for most creative way to finish went to the newlyweds.
Best performance went to Wine Before Weed, while the first place group award went to Wine Coaster.
Second place group award went to Girls Night Out, while Viking Vixens won the second place individual/duo category.
New this year was a massage service at the finish line that many runners took advantage of, Munday said.
For next year, the plan is to expand the registration party with more offerings, he pointed out.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
