Never in their wildest dreams did the organizers of the Half Corked Marathon think the event would become such a juggernaut of success in only four short years.
Members of the Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association were looking for a fun event to attract people to this region and came up with the idea of holding an event that combines athletic pursuits along with drinking wine, enjoying good food, having many laughs with a bunch of friends and generally having a good time.
Did they ever get it right.
They have come up with an event that now sells out in a matter of minutes.
As association president Tim Martiniuk explained this past weekend, the Half Corked Marathon has quickly become the fastest-selling race event in North America as all 650 spaces sell out in a matter of minutes when tickets go on sale.
The majority of participants dress up in costumes as part of the team event. It was a sight to behold as teams crossed the finish line during this year’s event as many of the costumes were outstanding and obviously took a lot of time to put together.
While there are a few serious athletes who participate, the large majority sign up to have a great time and enjoy the wonderful wine and beautiful scenery that makes those fortunate enough to live in the South Okanagan the envy of many other residents of this province.
Kudos are in order to the organizers and all of the participants for being part of a truly remarkable and fun event that provides a really nice boost to the local economy and goes a long way to showing visitors from across the province just how much we have to offer in and around Osoyoos.
