Beer mile

The beer mile is an athletic event combining running and beer consumption. Participants must drink a 12-ounce beer (typically a standard lager) then run a quarter mile (400 meters) before repeating the process three more times. The race consists of four beers and four laps, all completed consecutively.

Rules and Regulations

Official beer mile rules, as governed by organizations such as BeerMile.com, mandate that each beer must be consumed before the subsequent lap begins. The beer must be fully consumed within the transition area, typically marked by a line. Participants are penalized for not fully consuming the beer; this often entails running an extra penalty lap at the end of the race for any beer remaining in the bottle or can. Vomiting during the race, colloquially referred to as "chunks," also incurs a penalty lap. Participants usually aim to use the lowest ABV beer possible to avoid becoming overly intoxicated during the course of the race. The standard alcohol content of beer used is typically around 5%.

History

The beer mile is believed to have originated informally among college track and cross-country teams in the late 20th century. It has since evolved from a casual activity into a recognized, albeit unconventional, athletic event with organized competitions and record-keeping.

Records

World records are maintained for both men's and women's beer miles. Record holders are often elite runners who have also mastered the art of quickly consuming beer. The records are regularly updated as athletes continue to push the boundaries of the event.

Variations

While the standard beer mile involves four beers and four laps, variations exist. These can include team beer miles, where participants run legs of the race in a relay format, or versions with different types of alcoholic beverages or varying distances. There's also the "Breakfast Beer Mile" where participants consume a breakfast food item before each lap.