We’ve read plenty about the health benefits of drinking wine. How about participating in a half marathon for a charity and topping it off with multiple events in Virginia Wine Country? Impossible, you say. No, actually quite possible, and an already popular program.

When the Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon (Saturday, June 4) was announced, it literally became an overnight success. After all similar events have been held in that other wine region across the country (some call it “Napa”), but this is a first for us! Individuals can no longer register as that selection filled up almost immediately, but they are holding a lottery at the beginning of March to add additional single registrations. Wait, don’t get all frustrated, this worthy cause has figured out how to involve more people and still offer participation opportunities: Join a team.

Team Challenge is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s endurance training and fundraising program. Team leaders train participants to run or walk a half marathon while helping the Foundation raise money to find a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Teams are forming throughout the region, and individuals can take advantage of team training programs similar to other charitable events already popular in our area. By registering to participate on a team, you secure your position and gain the insight from individuals who can help you achieve your personal goals to participate and complete the 13.1 mile event by walking or jogging or combining the skills.

Team meetings are being held throughout the area this month so now’s the time to sign up so that you’ll be able to participate and enjoy the best of a philanthropic event and the beauty of Virginia Wine Country. The event includes a lifestyle expo at Lansdowne Resort (check the marathon site for properties offering special-priced lodging packages). Registration is required for a race dinner (Friday evening) at Bluemont Vineyard and then it’s time to do final stretches.

The race itself begins at Breaux Vineyards and winds through the beautiful countryside with a wine and music festival scheduled for Doukenie Winery and an afternoon concluding party at Tarara Winery. Additional winery events will be announced in the next couple of months.

The line-up alone should get you excited about participating. Here’s an opportunity to show your spirit (either by adding your name to the lottery or joining a team) and combine your charitable side with your heart-healthy, wine-loving side.