If you’re training for a big race, or just want to try a new venue for an outdoor adventure, sign up for the Great Arizona Grape Stomp 5K in Willcox, AZ this weekend.

The third leg of the Great Arizona 5K Grape Stomp in Willcox will go of as scheduled this Saturday, September 18. Please note that the start time was pushed to 8:00am to allow people more travel time in those early morning hours.

This race promises to be different and oh so much fun – it’s a trail run through a vineyard, something most of us have never had the joy of doing.  This will be a unique, once-in-a-lifetime chance to run through the vines at Keeling Schaefer Vineyards in Willcox, AZ.

The Arizona Wine Growers Association is encouraging participation to help support the local Willcox wineries by signing up to run or walk and spreading the word to your friends and family. Each runner receives a nice quality wine glass following the race that can be used at the local Willcox wineries to receive discounts.

Runners/walkers can register online through end-of-day Thursday. You can also print the entry form and bring it with them on Saturday.

Winemakers dinner pairings in Vail, AZ

Ann Roncone, Elgin winemaker, tells us that the Hacienda del Lago’s Chef Adam, will be pairing a 4-course event to showcase some of Lightning Ridge Cellars most popular reds, on Thursday, September 23, 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

The first course, peppered shrimp salad, will be paired with Lightning Ridge’s Cabernet Sauvignon. The second course will feature the winery’s recently released Resonance served with seasonal venison chili.

The third course showcases Lightning Ridge’s Compagno with rosemary crusted rack of lamb with a mint red-wine reduction. The Sangiovese will be served with a chocolate gingerbread cake for desert.

Seating is limited, reservations are highly recommended. The price is a modest $20 plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required, contact the del Lago restaurant (520) 647-3109, or Debbie Alverez, (520) 269-3003, for reservations. The Hacienda del Lago Golf Club and restaurant is located at 14155 East via Rancho del Lago, in Vail.

Kokopelli Krush Festival set for October

Mellow out to live blues, kick back to jazz, or rock out at the ninth annual Kokopelli Krush Festival, scheduled for October 22-24 at the Kokopelli Winery at 35 W. Boston Street, in Chandler, Arizona. On tap will be wine tasting, great food, and the official Grape Krush competition for teams of two. Check out photos of past ‘krushes’ on the wwwl.kokopelliwinery.com website to see just how much fun this can be.  Roll up those pant legs and give it a whirl. You’ll never be the same.