Marathon

The Marathon is the event's flagship race and groups together kayaks and canoes for 1 or 2 people. The Ardèche Gorge with its many rapids, is a playground for athletes looking for a challenge. The crews show ingenuity and skill in getting the most out of their boats as they tackle the river. The marathon however, is also a race open to amateur paddlers, who can take part in the race and experience for themselves the mythical atmosphere.

The Marathon race teaser 2023

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…..)

The removal of the boats must be done according to the rules stipulated.

Your equipment must respect article A322-45,46,47 of the sports code

Categories and prize ceremony

Competitor Information

The Marathon is open to the following categories: K1, K2, C1 & C2
The course is over 34km from “La Petite Mer” to Saint-Martin d’Ardèche
The 11h00 race starts from the area of river called “La Petite Mer”, which is situated 300 metres downstream from Salavas bridge
There will be 3 start lines:
- - for top athletes “Elite line”*
  - for serious competitors, competing in composite boats
  - for those competing in other boats

* The “Elite line” consists of a maximum of 30 boats. The places are selected using the following criteria: The first 20 places in the 2021 Marathon, 5 places are chosen by the race organisers and 5 places for female competitors. Any athlete who wishes to be considered for the “Elite line” must make a verbal request with the race organisers. The 30 boats selected to start on the “Elite line” will be announced at 19h00, the evening before the race in the Sports Hall.