Challenge
Since 1989, the event has welcomed large boats among its competitors. The C9s have become more and more powerful, with highly trained crews and specially designed equipment. Nevertheless, this race, which is called the Challenge, still keeps its festival feel. This is where all types of boats and their teams are mixed together - from pirogues to 9-seater canoes, 4-seater kayaks and ontarios - from seasoned paddlers to first time competitors!
Material & equipement
The boat must be unsinkable (the buoyancy reserve sufficiently filled and correctly attached). CE certified PFD/Buoyancy aid and helmet must be worn. As well as covered footwear and clothing appropriate for the climatic conditions. The helmsman of a C9, must be equipped with a safety rope and and a security knife.
Fancy dress is allowed, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the safety of individuals. The buoyancy aid and helmet must remain visible. Ensure that articles in and on the boat remain attached and nothing can be lost in the river (boat decoration, water bottle, fancy dress items…..)
Your equipment must respect article A322-45,46,47 of the sports code
Competitor Information
• For adults and minors aged 15 and over (born in 2007 and before)
• The course is over 27km from Pont d’Arc to Saint-Martin d’Ardèche
• The race is open to all boats with teams of 3 to upto 12 competitors
• The race starts at 10h00 from the beach located upstream from the Pont d’Arc.
IMPORTANT REMINDER - All boats must be dropped off to the race start point by 22h00, the evening before the race.
Categories
• Ontario (Single hull boats C9)
• CX from 7 to 12 people: all other boats - Kraft, pirogue, barque, K4, etc
• CKX from 3 to 6 people
Prizes are also awarded to the following, from all the categories combined:
• The team with the most original fancy dress
• The first all female team to arrive at the finish