RUNNING ROUND THE VINES

Popular vineyard running event the

Saint Clair Vineyard Half is about to get even better with a new route and the addition of a new 12km race, V12. Held each May since 2007(this year on 9 May), the half marathon – said to be one of the most picturesque races in New Zealand – starts at the Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen, winds through private vineyards, up and over stop banks and along the banks of the Wairau River before returning back to Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.

The new V12 race is sponsored by Nelson ice cream makers Appleby Farms, and is designed to be a challenge for entrants, but require less training than the full half marathon distance, with the course being off-road and mainly flat. The course will feature live entertainment, a huge array of on-course surprises, foodie treats, plus a bottle of Saint Clair wine for everyone who crosses the finish line.

“We’re thrilled to be part of a new feature to the Vineyard Half weekend,” says Mike Brown, CEO of Appleby Farms. “Supporting local is part of our ethos. We had a great time last year with providing a Sauvignon sorbet on the course and we look forward to bringing more fun to the V12 in Marlborough next year.” vineyardhalf.com