Although the storm thundered at the start of the main distance at 6 a.m., the runners mostly passed through the rain. “The first hour was difficult but then we were spared,” breathes the leader of the organization, delighted with the very positive feedback from the runners. “They appreciated the new difficult courses, the festive refreshments and the atmosphere around the arrival in Segonzac. »
Growing from 400 to 1,200 runners in six editions, the Grande Champagne trail is a flagship event in Charente. ” It is magic. The 140 volunteers can be proud,” says Jean-Christophe Jallat.
Cognac in force with Guibault, Leite Da Silva, Bourg and Maneval
On the sporting side, Mikaël Berny honored his status as favorite by taking victory in the 52 km (4h27’51”). The Charentais, 2e of the last edition, ahead of Jérémie Brail (4h45’50”) and Florian Colas (4h58’07”). “He doesn’t run much in Charente. It’s nice to see him win here,” appreciates Jean-Christophe Jallat.
Among the women, Cognac’s Tatiana Leite Da Silva won in 5h29’23” ahead of Laure Delaire (5h30’58”) and Solène Guillou (6h05’43”).
Over the 27.5 km, Thierry Guibault claimed victory in 2h13’10”. “He often won the short distance here. I challenged him to run on the 27th and he accepted,” explains the organizer, who praises the very good relations between Aventure Running Segonzac and Cognac Athletic Club of which Guibault is vice-president. The former French half-marathon champion beat Victor Lancrenon (2h17’43”) and Loïc Servant (2h18’58”).
The women’s 27.5 km was crowned by Irène Aubrée (Tardoire Athletic Club). The masters 3 completed the distance in 2h41’27” ahead of Laura Lapierre (2h48’40”) and Tiffany Lavoix (2h57’21”).
In the 15 km, victory went to Cognac native Kévin Bourg (1h08’41”) ahead of his teammate Raphaël Lassalle (1h09’46”) and Cédric Guignouard (1h12’22”).
On the women’s side, the Cognaçaise Virginie Maneval (1h29’22”) was ahead of the godmother of the event Laurie Phaï (1h35’27”) and Lucie Cuyle (1h36’37”).
