For the past 4 years, the marathon des Isles has wanted to mark its regional roots even more and has been christened "the marathon des Isles in Val d'Allier". It is organised in Avermes, a commune bordering Moulins, the prefecture of the department of Allier. A pretty little town, often little known, which is 50 km from Nevers, 100 km from Clermont-Ferrand, 75 km from Montluçon and 60 km from Vichy.
Practical info
date: the Isles Marathon is traditionally organised on the second weekend of June. The 30th edition will take place from 14 June 2015. A not very busy period in the marathon calendar in France, in competition with the only Marathon de la Liberté.
registration date: it is always possible to register on site, however the organizers strongly advise against it for obvious logistical reasons.
maximum number of participants: for the moment, there is no maximum, about 125 to 130 runners are present each year for 112 finishers in 2014. The Isles Marathon remains a small race but where the atmosphere and conviviality are indeed present every year.
price: to participate in the Marathon des Isles, marathon runners have to pay about 20 €, including meals after the race. A very attractive fare that can, in itself, justify the trip.
registration: registration can be done by mail to the organizer or online at the event site.
Other races: The Bas-en-Basset half-marathon is organised at the beginning of July in the region.
The course
interest: the course of the Isles Marathon is made up of three identical and shaded loops in a semi-champy setting. The organisers would like to point out that each year the start is traditionally made with music to the tune of Carmina Burana for a moment of guaranteed emotion. The finish is on the stadium track.
Difficulty: there is no particular difficulty to report in this world. It is a rather flat and rolling course conducive to performance.
Difference in altitude: overall, the Isles Marathon has a total of 150 metres of difference in altitude.
temperature: at this time of the year, it can be relatively cool in the Allier. Each year, temperatures vary between 12°C and 20°C. It's important to check the weather forecast to make sure you're dressed appropriately for race day.
refreshment: refreshment points are available to runners every 5 km. Sponge stations are also set up between the feed stations
services at the finish line: physiotherapists are available to the runners to relieve painful legs at the finish line
More information on the event website
