L'évènement
L'évènement
32 KM
The Marathon brings together 1- and 2-person kayaks and canoes. The 32 km of the Ardèche Gorges feature numerous rapids, offering an ideal playground for athletes seeking a challenge. Crews must show ingenuity to adapt their specific equipment to the river.
The Marathon is also open to enthusiasts, who can take part in unsinkable kayaks while enjoying the legendary atmosphere. Always full of surprises, this race leaves nothing to chance — here, nothing is ever decided in advance!
11:00 a.m. The last start is given in true Ardèche style: “Watch out, hot chestnuts, here we go!” The boats surge forward, turning the small river section into a wave-filled playground. For several minutes, boats parade under the starting line.
As the kilometers pass, the excitement of the start gives way to calmer moments, revealing breathtaking views of the Ardèche Gorges.
COMPETITOR INFORMATION
MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT
Boats must be unsinkable; ensure you have sufficient and properly secured buoyancy reserves. During the entire descent, wearing a buoyancy aid, a CE-approved helmet, and closed shoes is mandatory. A suitable thermal outfit is also recommended.
Costumes are welcome, provided they do not compromise individual 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 Marathon is open to participants aged 15 and over (minors must hold an FFCK competition license; exemption possible upon request to the organizer).
You will paddle 27 km through the majestic beauty of the Natural Reserve, from Pont d’Arc to Saint-Martin d’Ardèche. Solo or tandem, everyone will find their perfect fit (canoe or kayak).
TIMING
The electronic sticker chip, provided with your race bib, must be fixed on top of the front paddler’s helmet (one chip per boat). Do not stick it on a carbon helmet.
The bib is also worn by the front paddler 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 the bib.
DEPARTURE
The race will start at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, at the location called “La Petite Mer”, 300 m downstream from the Vallon Pont d’Arc communal dock. Three lines mark the start:
Line 1: Elites (yellow bibs)
Line 2: Fiberglass boats
Line 3: Plastic boats
During the race, a refreshment station will be available halfway, at the Gournier bivouac. Hot drinks and snacks will be provided.
OPEN TO PARTICIPANTS AGED 15 AND OVER (born in 2010 or earlier)*
The Marathon is open to K1, K2, C1, and C2 boats.
The course is 34 km, from “La Petite Mer” to Saint-Martin d’Ardèche.
The start will take place at 11:00 a.m. at “La Petite Mer”, 300 meters downstream from the Salavas bridge.
Three start lines will be marked:
Elite Line
Competitor Line (composite boats only)
Leisure Line
*For minors, an FFCK competition license is mandatory, along with Blue Paddle Whitewater level.
Elite Line Details:
Maximum of 30 boats: the top 20 from the previous edition, 5 boats selected by the organizers, and 5 female boats.
Athletes wishing to start on the Elite Line must request authorization from the organizers.
The Elite Line start list will be announced the day before the race at 7:00 p.m. at the Sports Hall.