Les Défis de Sainte Barbe

Stop talking out of your beard and come burn off some energy ! 🔥 Yes, the Saint-BeauDéfis are back, with a friendly vibe 😆. As every year, we’re waiting for you in the lovely town of Hénin-Beaumont ⭐️ in the heart of Pas-de-Calais, in the north, north, north of France 🫨. A varied landscape is planned, with water, countryside 🏔️ and a few villages! Of course, several disciplines are offered, all in the great outdoors : cycling 🚲, running 🏃 or walking 🚶, you get to choose what you prefer. For more thrills 🎊, the race will kick off in December, so gear up warmly… Expect temperatures between 2° and 8° 🥶, make sure to pack a scarf in your bag, a beanie and gloves! 🧤

On the program, plenty of choice so everyone will be happy! 😄 We start with a running. Two distances available: 5 km or 10 km, with beautiful routes around the town 🌆. A system of scratch rewards 🏅 is in place, so no fuss, everyone will be on the same pedestal! ✅ We keep going strong with cycling, MTB (Mountain Biking) or Gravel !🚴 Two routes prepared with care, at 20 km and 40 km. Hope your legs are nicely warmed up for this beautiful circuit 🌻. Want to take it easy? No problem, a hike of 6 km is organized, to enjoy with your loved ones, for example 😉. Parents, you won’t be done with your kids so quickly 🧒, they’ve got you covered! A "Family Run", of 1 km will take place! 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Imagine seeing your little one, with a medal around the neck, how adorable is that? 😍 All routes are organized around the town where the Espace François Mitterrand will be your starting point. Along your path 🛣️, the Parc du Bord des Eaux, which lives up to its name because a large lake sits in the middle. If you look closely, you might spot a few locals 🦆. A stop at the green lung of Hénin (inhabitants of Henin) 🌳: the Terril des Pommiers, a spot with a few meters of elevation 📈, for a nice breath of fresh air.

You deserve a little rest after a great effort! 💪 The region is great to visit all year roundSaint-Martin Church of Hénin-Beaumont is a must-see detour! ⛪️ Since 2003, its architecture has been listed as a French historical monument, classing them! 🤓 Otherwise, 15 minutes by car to the west will get you to Lens, the city of the "blood and gold"! Rich in history 📖, Lens was rebuilt 80 years ago, so the town center is brand new and definitely worth a visit 🫵. To the East this time, Douai—yeah, you wouldn’t guess but there are plenty of monuments to discover! 🏛️ By the way, let’s not forget the foodies, because you’ll be spoiled 😆. The flamiche with maroilles, hard to beat in terms of tradition, (also hard to beat in terms of indulgence), just don’t forget to brush your teeth after… 🧀 A sweet note to finish, the stuffed waffles from the north, pure delight 🍯.

So, are you ready to head toward a fantastic race in the north of France? 🎊