Défi 47, the Lot-et-Garonne cyclosportive; what are the challenges for this 8th edition?

“Last year, we had exactly 1,003 registered on the 3 different courses offered during Défi 47. And this year, we intend to beat this participation record” begins Jean-Jacques Massou, treasurer of the Departmental Cycling Committee.

Because this committee is a stakeholder in this organization with partners, the Greater Villeneuvois Urban Community and the town of Villleneuve-sur-Lot, and above all the creator, promoter and organizer of this cyclosportive. “Last year, we had the common desire to make Défi 47 a promotional vector for the territory. We attached ourselves to the idea of ​​creating courses highlighting the landscapes and heritage of the territory, as much as to that to promote local production and initiatives Villeneuve-sur-Lot and Greater Villeneuvois having made the attractiveness of the territory a spearhead of their development policy, these two points will take on additional importance for this 8th. edition, the 2nd in this territory” continues Jean-Jacques Massou.

So, will last year's record be surpassed? From 222 runners in 2017 during the first edition to 1,003 in 2024, the number of participants has always been constantly increasing. But did this 2024 record benefit from the passage of the Tour de France? “We'll see when registrations end. They open on December 13 on the website: www.defi47.fr. For the holidays, a promotional rate will be applied until the beginning of January.”

4 different loops and a more family-friendly alternative

The Défi 47 offers for this 8th edition, 4 loops depending on the level and desires of the cyclists: a “Granfondo” course of 13 kilometers timed; an 80-kilometer “Cyclo” course, also timed; a 47-kilometer “Rando” course and a 30-kilometer course, both untimed and without classification.

“In terms of new features, the 47 km course will offer a shorter alternative on a 30 km loop. Untimed and without any relief, this course will allow families to participate in this unique cycling event. And this year, cyclists will pass through the city center of Villeneuve, in convoy And as for several years, the sponsor of this edition will be Pierrick Fédrigo, the former professional rider with 4 Tour de France stage victories to his credit.

A village of partners, gifts, atmosphere and all the towns in the CAGV territory crossed by cyclists. A good omen is a big cycling festival on Sunday April 13.