Race is on for slots in Napa-Sonoma run

The run isn’t until July 20, but the race to get in begins now.

Registration for the 2014 Napa-to-Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon, the sold-out event that attracts nearly 4,000 runners, is now available online. Registration for individuals is expected to sell out quickly at Destinationraces.com, according to the event producer.

Team registration will be conducted by a lottery system that opens on November 13 and closes on December 11. The event itself is July 20, 2014, a scenic 13.1 mile run from Cuvaison Winery in Napa to the finish line in Sonoma Plaza.

“This event has filled up faster every year since we started 10 years ago, and we expect a very heavy rush at the opening bell this year,” said Matt Dockstader of Destination Races. The event has instituted a partial lottery system to make it easier for teams to get in, and to give individuals a second chance.

“Registration for this event can be difficult, but it’s a testament to the popularity of the event on a national level,” Dockstader said.