The trail racing season isn't over yet! From the Grands Causses with the trail des Templiers to the island of the Grand Raid Réunion, the must-see races come thick and fast this October. Find out why these two sporting events have achieved legendary status!
The Trail Templiers and the Raid Réunion are two running races that have earned legendary status in the world of trail. To understand why these races are so iconic, it's essential to explore their history, their unique characteristics and the experience they offer to runners.
The legendary myth of the Trail des Templiers
The Trail Templiers is one of the largest gatherings of trail runners in the world. It takes place every year in the Massif des Causses, in France. This iconic race attracts thousands of participants and offers a range of distances. From 10 km to 72 km with significant elevation gain and technical trails, runners face vertiginous climbs, fast descents and breathtaking scenery. The Trail Templiers is also renowned for its unique atmosphere, its friendliness and its festive spirit. Runners live a memorable experience crossing the natural gorges and cirques of the region. The enthusiastic cheers of the crowd at the Cirque de Navacelles are a prime example.
Several athletes from Team Cimalp are on the start line for this 2023 edition:
- Alexia Coudray on the VO2 trail
- Flavie Bruyneel at l'Intégrale des Causses
- Laure Desmurs and Baptiste Lorier, at the Marathon des Causses
From the Larzac through the Dourbie valley, 12 race formats are on offer to trail runners, catering for long-distance devotees and speed merchants alike.
Guaranteed thrills and exceptional views with Millau as the backdrop!
The mythic trail of the Grand Raid Réunion
Likewise, the Raid Réunion is an extreme ultra-trail race. Also known as the Diagonale des Fous, it takes place on the island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean. With nearly 10,000 metres of positive elevation gain, steep trails and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions, this event is considered one of the toughest in the world. Trail runners must take on the challenge of crossing majestic cirques — Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie being the most well-known. They cover breathtaking landscapes, steep ravines and dizzying climbs. The Raid Réunion is also famous for its exceptional atmosphere. The people of Réunion bring warmth and unwavering support to the event! Runners make their way along sometimes narrow trails, packed with athletes and spectators who create an incomparable atmosphere.
These two races are legendary for several reasons. First, they offer runners a unique experience in the heart of nature, with stunning scenery and sometimes technical trails. The demanding terrain tests participants' physical and mental endurance, pushing them to surpass themselves. The winners of these races are often regarded as true heroes, admired for their extraordinary feats.
In 2023, athletes from Team Cimalp Réunion are taking part in the Grand Raid and the Trail de Bourbon!
- Fred Morin: 5th Trail de Bourbon (2022), 2nd Trail de Minuit (2023)
- Aurélien Jacoutot: 13th Diagonale (2021), 6th UTHG 127 km & 2nd GRP 127 km (2023)
- Yoann Mornet: 5th UTMC, 6th Luchon Aneto trail (2023)
- Robin Coinus: 3rd Trail de Bourbon (2022), 2nd D-tour 60, 3rd UTPMA 105 km, 2nd GRP 127 km (2023)
- Benjamin Postaire: 14th Diagonale (2021), 5th D-tour 45, 1st Mégasalazienne (2023)
Two races with strong values
Furthermore, the Trail Templiers and the Raid Réunion are both renowned for their flawless organisation and the support provided to runners. Regular aid stations, checkpoints, medical assistance and volunteers present throughout the course — all ensuring participant safety and encouraging everyone to reach the finish line. Places are also highly sought after. With ballot systems to guarantee a fair selection of participants, this adds an extra layer of excitement and suspense. Finally, both races are wrapped in a festival atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie. Trail runners come together to share their common passion. Whether at the Trail Templiers or the Raid Réunion, runners support one another, push their limits and make the most of the experience. Podium finishers are honoured at the prize-giving and winners earn international acclaim.
In summary, the Trail Templiers and the Raid Réunion are legendary races thanks to their unique characteristics and the exceptional atmosphere they create. The organisation is impeccable, with a remarkable ability to deliver an unforgettable experience to every runner. Taking on these challenges means training hard, pushing your limits and living an extraordinary adventure in the heart of nature. These two races deserve their legendary status in the world of trail. They continue to inspire countless athletes around the world.
Photos: Cyrille Quintard | Greg Alric
