In cyclo-cross, the list of events in Deux-Sèvres is not very long. Only three races are offered on the calendar of the French Cycling Federation, in Chef-Boutonne, Aiffres and Brion-près-Thouet. “It's not so surprising to have few, there are few clubs in the area and they are focused on the road. However, it is almost simpler to organize because it is an enclosed place and off the roads, it requires fewer volunteers”estimates Frédéric Mainguenaud, at the head of the Aiffres cyclo-cross, which takes place this Sunday, December 29.
“To keep the races alive, you need participants”
According to him, the lack of « crossman » in Deux-Sèvres can also explain the rarity of the discipline. “Obviously, when there is not an ambassador, it is less dynamic. To keep the races alive, you need participants. In the youth categories, we are still having trouble getting people to come, while the senior race fills up quickly”underlines Frédéric Mainguenaud, also recalling the cost of equipment for a sport which is practiced only in winter.
In Aiffres, the Saint-Florent Niort Pedal is therefore working to keep its event going. Launched in 2017 by Thierry Turpaud and Niortais Julien Belgy, former professional road runner and confirmed crossman (French junior champion in 2001 and numerous national podiums), the 7e edition of the competition has become a meeting place for runners from Poitou-Charentes and Loire" rel="tag">Pays de la Loire.
“What works well is the date and the route. There are few trials during this period between two festivals. Those who are preparing for the regional or French championships want to run every week to prepare, so they come to Aiffres. As for the circuit, it remains around the Tartalin area but we allow ourselves a few new things”explains Frédéric Mainguenaud, ready to trace the route this Saturday with his son Tom and around ten volunteers from PSF Niort.
This Sunday, December 29 at the Espace Tartalin in Aiffres.
The seniors race promises a spectacle
This Friday evening, 36 riders are entered for the senior race of the Aiffres cyclo-cross. Among them, Tom Mainguenaud will be the local to watch. The Niortais notably offered himself second place in Eymouthiers last Sunday, behind Joshua Dubau, elite French champion in 2022. Mathieu Morichon, winner last year and champion of Centre-Val de Loire, will be one of the leaders is appearing alongside former professionals Arnold Jeannesson and Kévin Ledanois. Valentin Cosnier, European masters champion 40-44 years old, will also start.
Ufolep races at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. FFC youth races at 1:30 p.m., seniors and elite races at 2:45 p.m.
Registrations still possible on site Sunday morning.
