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Le Challenge
28 KM
The Challenge – the fun race of the Marathon!
The Challenge brings together participants from all backgrounds. Since 1989, it has attracted “big boats,” with more and more C9s joining the competition every year.
Open to all — athletes, para-athletes, experienced paddlers, or complete beginners — the Challenge is one of the most accessible races of the International Marathon of the Ardèche Gorges. A wide variety of boats line up: from Polynesian outrigger canoes (V6) to C9s steered with the skill of seasoned river sailors. For the less experienced, steering and keeping course can be a real challenge — and that’s what makes the race so special!
Whatever the boat, the thrill of whitewater navigation is what counts! The real challenge begins at 10 a.m., when competitors surge under the Pont d’Arc in a massive flotilla. From there, a 28 km whitewater adventure unfolds — where anything can happen.
Good spirits and camaraderie are at the heart of the event. Costumes are highly encouraged, with a prize for the best outfit, adding to the playful and festive atmosphere. The race is just as much about fun off the water as it is about competition on it!
Around the event, concerts, markets, and food stalls create a vibrant gathering place where locals, visitors, and participants celebrate together — making it a true festival beyond the race.
COMPETITOR INFORMATIONS
EQUIPMENT and GEAR
EQUIPMENT and GEAR
Boats must be unsinkable, with sufficient and properly secured buoyancy reserves. During the entire descent, participants must wear a buoyancy aid, a CE-approved helmet, and closed shoes. A suitable thermal outfit is strongly recommended.
Each C9 steerer must carry a safety rope and a safety knife. Costumes are welcome, provided they do not compromise safety (lifejacket and helmet must remain visible) and nothing can be lost in the Natural Reserve.
All equipment must comply with articles A322-45, 46, and 47 of the French Sports Code.
The Challenge, like the Marathon, is open to participants aged 15 and over (minors must hold an FFCK competition license; exemption possible upon request to the organizer).
You’ll paddle 28 km through the majestic beauty of the Natural Reserve, from Pont d’Arc to Saint-Martin d’Ardèche.
From 3 to 12 paddlers per boat — whether Ontario, outrigger canoe, K4, C9 and more — everyone will find their place on the water!
TIMING
TIMING
The electronic sticker chip, provided with your race bib, must be fixed on top of your helmet (do not stick it on a carbon helmet).
Your bib must remain visible throughout the race and must be returned at the finish in exchange for refreshment tickets — otherwise, it will be charged.
In case of withdrawal, please inform the organization of your race number and return your bib.
BOAT DROP-OFF
BOAT DROP-OFF
Boats can be dropped off from Friday, November 7, on the Pont d’Arc beach for Stand-Up Paddle boards and large Challenge boats. Overnight security will be provided from Saturday to Sunday.
⚠️ Please note: No vehicles are allowed on the beach. Follow the signage and the instructions of the traffic management team. All vehicles must return to the Pont d’Arc parking lot after unloading.
During the race, a refreshment station will be available halfway, at the Gournier bivouac. Hot drinks and snacks will be served.
Competitor Information (text)
Competitor Information (text)
Open from age 15 (born in 2010 or earlier)*
28 km course, starting from Pont d’Arc and finishing in Saint-Martin d’Ardèche
The Challenge is open to boats with more than 2 people and up to a maximum of 12 people.
The start will take place at 10 a.m. from the upstream beach at Pont d’Arc on Saturday, November 8.
IMPORTANT: Boats must be dropped off the day before, no later than 10 p.m., on the upstream beach at Pont d’Arc.
*Exemption possible upon request to the organizer for underage FFCK competitors.
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