The rolling hills of the Bluegrass are a beautiful sight from the comfort of your car or IG feed. But on Fri., Oct. 15, athletes from across the country will be running 200+ miles through the hills + horse farms for The Bourbon Chase. To some, this might sound a little like torture. To others, it’s considered fun.
This race is a test of both mental and physical endurance. We wanted to know the runners’ why. So we talked to 2 of them — first-timer Alex Wolf + veteran Danny Kissel — to get their thoughts and advice on their Bourbon Chase experience.
What was your inspiration for signing up?
Alex: I have been trying to do things that push me out of my comfort zone. Running in the dark is definitely one of them.
What’s your favorite part?
Danny: My favorite memory was from my first year, I was leaving Wild Turkey Distillery and ran across the Tyrone High Bridge at around 5 a.m. The fog was coming off the Kentucky River + the sun was just starting to come up, it was beautiful.
Camaraderie + support are the names of the game for The Bourbon Chase. Danny said, “The team aspect of it makes for a fun + unique event. You are pushing yourself to finish for the team.” Alex echoed that sentiment, “The best advice has been to just run and think about crossing the finish line with my team.”
Head to downtown Lexington Saturday morning to experience the excitement + cheer on the runners as they cross the finish line on Main St.
Pro tip: Check out John’s Run Walk Shop and West Sixth Run Club to get started on your own personal running journey. After all, 200+ miles through the countryside starts with that first run through a local park.
