There will be 180 of them set off on Saturday, around 1 p.m., in Ronce-les-Bains for the 6th edition of the Galon d’Or long-distance triathlon. An event which has gained notoriety since its creation thanks to…
There will be 180 of them set off on Saturday, around 1 p.m., in Ronce-les-Bains for the 6th edition of the Galon d’Or long-distance triathlon. An event which has gained notoriety since its creation thanks to the selectivity of its course but also and above all thanks to the visual which is offered to all participants. From the start of the swimming part on Gatseau beach, south of the island of Oléron, via the road which leads to the Coubre lighthouse and finishing in the sand of Galon-d’Or beach, difficult to find a more heavenly place to forget for a while the suffering of a triathlon.
Because despite the wild and natural aspect of this competition, which this year will serve as support for the Nouvelle-Aquitaine regional championship, there will be complicated, even painful moments for the participants. First of all, crossing the estuary which separates the Isle of Light from the continent. Despite the departure time specially chosen by the organizers in relation to the tide, it will be necessary to fight against the current with, as a bonus, an Australian exit from the water (a few hectometers on foot before returning to the water). water).
Several favorites stand out
The cycling part will take place over 84 kilometers divided into 4 laps, or 8 times the ascent of the famous Gardour coast. No climbers refrain. And finally, the contenders for victory and all the other finishers will complete their journey with two 9.5 kilometer loops on foot on the cycle paths and mountain bike trails of the forest. It will therefore take experience to win and, from then on, the eyes of the specialists will be turned, among the men, towards Nicolas Onillon, second in 2022, Bart De Kerangat or even Anthony Jarry 6th last year.
Among the ladies, the uncertainty is even greater to name a favorite for victory, but Emmanuelle Surault, Anouk Richard or even Laetitia Chabot could well make up the women’s podium. Note, moreover, that the event takes place in a protected natural environment, each competitor must evolve in total autonomy. The organization will provide liquid supplies but not containers or glasses. The event aims to be a “zero waste” race.
