To succeed in this 45th edition of the legendary race which runs along the Gineste from the Phocaean city, the France Télévisions sports presenter shares her tips. So, lace up your shoes!
The essentials of the day: our exclusive selection
Every day, our editorial team reserves the best regional news for you. A selection just for you, to stay in touch with your regions.
France Télévisions uses your email address to send you the newsletter “The essentials of the day: our exclusive selection”. You can unsubscribe at any time via the link at the bottom of this newsletter. Our privacy policy
It’s a race that can cause serious damage if you’re not prepared enough. The 45th edition of the Marseille-Cassis half-marathon takes place on Sunday October 27. And this year again, the climb of the Gineste is a challenge for the 20,000 runners expected on the 20 km route between Marseille and Cassis.
Even for the experienced, the half marathon is a challenge. But don’t panic, France 3 Provence-Alpes asked the very sporty, and racing regular, Nathalie Simon to give her advice on how not to break down.
First of all, we must not underestimate the sun. Cream, glasses and hat are essential to keep you going. Staying well hydrated is essential.
There are refreshments, of course. But Nathalie Simon advises keeping small bars with you that you like, that you have already tried.
“Don’t tighten your shoes too tightly, your foot will swell when you go running” warns Nathalie Simon.
Another piece of advice: choose your departure airlock carefully.
“Because if you start too fast, you’re going to burn out from the start and if you start too slowly, you’re going to have a lousy time”
The most difficult stage of the race is certainly the climb of the Gineste. To avoid exhausting yourself at this stage, Nathalie Simon advises “shortened steps”to stay straight and, above all, to breathe well.
The descent “is not easier”, explains the sportswoman. “We take care to have our torso inclined, if possible in the direction of the slope. We relax our legs well so as not to slow down the descent.”
Another runner told us, we have to save time because after the Gineste, other climbs in the last kilometers come to finish off the most motivated.
