Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation Presents Third Running of Vintners 5 Miler

The third running of the Vintners 5 Miler plus 1 Mile Wine Walk is slated for Saturday, July 22, 2017, again hosted at the world-famous Sanford Winery traversing the Rinconada and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. This unique off-road running event, presented by the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation, will begin at 9:00am in front of the winery and cover a 5 mile or 1 mile course suitable for runners and walkers of all age and abilities. The mixed terrain 5 mile course includes a 350 ft. ascent to a spectacular overlook with a commanding view of the Sta. Rita Hills. New this year, the 5 Miler is a Santa Barbara Athletic Association (SBAA) Grand Prix scoring event.

“At our third edition, we expect another record turnout for this one-of-a-kind Central Coast community event that benefits the Vintners Foundation, and we look forward to welcoming everybody from serious runners to first-timers to their family & friends,” said Sanford winemaker, race founder and avid runner Steve Fennell. “Post-race at the Finish Line Festival, we will also celebrate the upcoming 2017 harvest with world class wine tasting, local food, live music and a family friendly kids zone!”

Finishers will receive a commemorative wine glass (21 & older) along with their wine-themed collectible medal and event t-shirt. In addition to the run/walk, participants will enjoy a world class Finish Line Festival that includes local wineries pouring and regional chefs serving delicious fare. 

Last year, Ramiro Guillen and Dani Moreno of Santa Barbara won the second Vintners 5 Miler, clocking 27 minutes, 7 seconds as men’s champion, while defending champion Moreno crossed the finish line in 32:30. The top team was The Screwcaps (Ricky Ho, Tim Strand, Andrea Schettler, Mark Fennell and Teri Malinowski) who averaged 34:29.

The Vintners 5 Miler was conceived by Sanford Winery’s Winemaker & General Manager, Steve Fennell, who dreamed of hosting a community inspired event to benefit the Foundation in the beautiful Sta. Rita Hills. The Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation supports local organizations including Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, People Helping People of the Santa Ynez Valley, Direct Relief, Allan Hancock College Enology/Viticulture Program, Arts Outreach of the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara Foundation, as well as a scholarship program for students who plan to make careers in the wine industry.

Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome, and registration for the event, including the Finish Line Festival-only, is available at: sbvintnersrun.com

About the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation

The Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation is the charitable umbrella under which Santa Barbara Vintners conducts its philanthropic work. Through the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation, Santa Barbara Vintners contributes to the community through local charitable and scholarship organizations with proceeds from its various events. Visit www.sbcountywines.com for more information.