User:Edubs800/Beer mile

A Beer Mile is a sporting event combining the skills of competitive running and speed drinking. Typically, the event is contested as a race on a standard 400 meter or 1/4 mile running track. The race begins at the 1-mile starting line with the consumption of a standard amount of beer, followed by a full lap around the track. The second lap continues in a similar manner; the standard amount of beer is consumed before commencing the running of the second lap. This process is repeated for the next two laps. Following the completion of the fourth running lap (and four beers), a competitor has finished the race. The more specific rules of the race vary by region.

The North American Tradition

In North America, typically, 12 US ounces of beer is consumed from an aluminum can before every lap. Since the advent of the internet, the rules of the Beer Mile have become more standardized, particularly in the United States and Canada. The standard rules published by BEERMILE.COM are based on the most common rules used in North America. These rules specify that any competitor that vomits prior to finishing the race must complete a penalty lap immediately following the fourth lap. The penalty lap does not require the drinking of an additional beer. The standard rules also dictate that the beer be consumed directly from the pour of the can (i.e. tampering with the cans, such as "shotgunning", is not allowed). The beer used for the competition must also be full-strength, or at least 5.0% ABV. Hard ciders and other alcoholic beverages are generally not allowed. The Beer Mile has become a very popular event among collegiate track and field programs, and is often contested following the conclusion of the "official" season.

The "Chunder" Mile

The rules used in the United Kingdom often vary slightly from those favored in the United States. Typically, an imperial pint (20 imperial ounces) is consumed before every lap, with no specification of the drinking vessel. Pint glasses are preferred for the speed in which the beverage can be finished. The one lap penalty for "chundering", popular in North America, is not generally enforced.

Popular Variations

A popular variation allows female competitors to consume one fewer beer than the male competitors. Females are allowed to begin the first running lap without consuming a beer. This rule is often enacted to encourage participation from females.

While full strength beer is generally the preferred beverage, some races allow consumption of alternative beverages such as light beer, malt beverages, or milk.

The beer mile is often combined with other running/drinking events such as the:

4 x 40 oz. relay -- where a team of 4 competitors run 100m each around the track, finishing a 40 oz. bottle of beer or malt liquor on the way

Wild Turkey 2-mile -- each competitor runs 8 laps, with a shot of whiskey (usually Wild Turkey) before every lap.

naked 4 x 400m -- each member of a 4 competitor team runs a lap around the track nude - drinking is technically optional, but encouraged

External links

• http://www.beermile.com/
• http://beer.about.com/b/2009/10/29/the-beer-mile.htm