The Azay-le-Rideau marathon offers runners a nostalgic and historical dive into the heart of the Loire castles. It benefits from a certain experience in organizing marathons and will celebrate its 22nd edition in 2015, a race on a human scale that last year brought together nearly 300 participants.

practical information

date: the 21st edition of the Azay-le-Rideau marathon will be held on April 26, 2015

registration date: on the Azay-le-Rideau marathon, registrations are still possible until the day before the race. Please note that race numbers can be collected from Friday for competitors already present on site or taking advantage of the race to spend the weekend in the heart of the Loire castles.

maximum number of participants: for the time being, the organizers have not set a maximum. On average, 300-400 marathoners are on the starting line each year. In 2013, there were 258 finishers. The Azay-le-rideau marathon benefits from a real experience, but remains a family and friendly race.

tariff: to participate in the event, you need to count between 30 € and 35 €. Fares increase from March 1st. An amount that remains really reasonable considering the different services offered by the organizers.

registration: registration can be done very easily online on the website dedicated to the event.

other races: Azay-le-Rideau also hosts the Pomme-Poire race, which is 11.5 km long, but also a race for children. The Richelieu half-marathon, "La Galopade", is organized in the Centre region around May 1st.

The course

interest: discover the castle of Azay-le-Rideau and the surrounding villages. The marathon consists of a single loop that crosses six cities in total. The start is held in front of the castle, the runners pass over the Indre bridge to reach Cheillé. They then pass through Rivarennes, Rigny-Ussé and then reach the banks of the Loire. The marathon then takes on a rural aspect in the village of Lignières before reaching the main square of Azay-le-Rideau.

difficulty: the marathon does not present any particular difficulty, it is accessible, rolling and conducive to performance for the most seasoned runners. Beginner marathon runners can also try their hand at this marathon.

gradient: the track is truly flat throughout the entire course

temperature: at this time of year, temperatures vary between 10°C and 20°C. However, it can be quite chilly in the morning. Provide warm clothing to wear on the starting line.

refreshments: every 5 km the runners will be able to find water as well as solid refreshments of all kinds, studied and adapted according to their needs.

services at the finish line: at the finish line, physiotherapists, masseurs and civil protection teams will welcome the riders

For more information, please visit the event website