Off-stadium race: The Bourraid Trail features a hilly course

The Bourraid Trail, a new race on the trail calendar in the department 'Of course not. "It's the second edition," insists Stéphane Flayac, one of the event's organizers. This Sunday, there will be around a hundred, maybe a little more, taking part in the 15 km race and the two proposed hikes (15 and 8 kilometers). A friendly race, accessible to all and conceived following a "well-watered" evening. "We decided to create the race with a friend who runs a lot. He told me he knew a route and we went with that," explains Stéphane Flayac.

The result is the motto of the Trail du Bourraid: have fun and enjoy yourself. And it must be said that there's a great atmosphere, as evidenced by the first edition last year, which was quite successful, with 150 participants.

Staggered departures

Only one trail course awaits registrants. Fifteen kilometers are on the program with 460 m of elevation gain. "On the trail, we're really in nature, on paths. We have two beautiful hills right in the middle of the course and it climbs very sharply on the road going towards Manzac-sur-Vern and Grignols," explains the organizer. "We also have a fairly technical descent with quite a few stones where you'll have to watch your ankles. The runners will then climb back up to arrive at Bourrou in the woods," adds Stéphane Flayac.

Last year, the participants worked up a good sweat. It's expected to be just as true this Sunday, when the mercury will hover around 30 degrees Celsius by morning. "We're looking into postponing the starts," says Stéphane Flayac. This is to avoid overheating. This year, the race will also serve as a departmental challenge for firefighters. Those who finish in the top three places will be selected for the national challenge.

Practical information

Registration is possible on Klikego (16.20 euros for the trail, 7.80 euros for the hikes) and on site on the day itself. Bibs can be collected at the Bourrou village hall the same morning (from 7:30 a.m., trail starts at 9 a.m., for now, hikes at 9:15 a.m.). A meal with local products is offered (for a fee). Two refreshment stations are set up along the 15 km (solid and liquid).