Fine fare for Yallingup marathon

Cheese, chocolate and wine are not the usual fare found at marathon pit stops, but they will be during a new event coming to Yallingup.

Maramoo is a first for the region and will take runners in fancy dress through Yallingup wineries and bush trails to sample local produce as they run a full or half marathon solo or in teams.

Organiser Shelley Hatton said the event was inspired by French marathon Le Médoc, which takes participants through the vineyards of Bordeaux.

“We are aiming to showcase local produce and make it a fun day out for everyone,” she said.

“Runners, supporters, family — anyone who would like to go to the race village.”

The race village will be located at the corner of Wildwood and Commonage Roads on Rivendell Estate and will mark the start and finish of the event.

Runners will be fuelled by Rivendell head chef Michael Stock’s cuisine, among other offerings.

Mr Stock said he would “carb load” athletes the night before and prepare food throughout the day.

Rivendell winery restaurant owner Carol Bull expected the event would have a “community feel” and said it was much more than a running event.

“It’s essentially a taste of what it’s like here in the Yallingup area,” she said.

Despite the fun community feel, Ms Hatton said it was still a serious marathon and urged athletes to train appropriately.

There are still about four months to train for the event, scheduled for September 10.

Runners can register now at www.maramoo.com.au.