Conquering a 26-mile marathon is a grueling test of stamina that few people are capable of tackling. But what about a full-fledged marathon that includes runners in costume, 22 wine-tasting stations and an oyster bar along the route?

If you didn't know such a thing existed...it does. It's the Médoc Marathon, a raucous, wine-soaked run that takes place every fall in the heart of France's legendary Bordeaux region. And host Bob Blumer's challenge is to remember that even though this unique event may seem like a party -- at least that's what the other 8000 runners seem to think -- it is still a race, and a long one at that!

But Bob discovers the payoff is worth the work, as he enjoys a whirlwind tour through some of the world's finest wineries, and gets the chance to win his weight in first-growth Bordeaux.