(Forbes) - Every year in Bordeaux, runners in the world’s longest and without doubt most bizarre marathon take to the road.

Simply put, the Marathon du Medoc gives hydration a whole new meaning.

Instead of athletic gear, runners wear carnival-themed outfits – the more extravagant the better. But what really gives this marathon its special flare is the official drink, and it’s neither water nor Gatorade. Rather, runners get juiced on fine wine from the many chateaux along the route running through the heart of one of France’s most legendary wine regions.

And – no surprise – instead of oranges, bananas and power bars, energy comes from gourmet French delicacies spread all along the way to the finish line.

“The course is 26.2 miles through scenic vineyards and the participants – in compulsory fancy dress – are expected to indulge in 23 glasses of the famed vintages in route, while also stuffing themselves with local specialties such as oysters, foie gras, cheese, steak and ice cream,” wrote a reporter from The Guardian who participated last year. “Brilliant.”

Tempted? You and tens of thousands.  Last year, with 35 countries represented, the organizers rejected over 40,000 applications for the 10,000 spots open to competitors who, among other demands, must prove their medical fitness to run in a marathon.