La Redoutée

It seems we’re dealing with a fearless Finisher… 👀 You don’t look anxious at the idea of discovering La Redoutée, but we’d rather warn you: get ready for legs that tremble (or rather calves that heat up 🔥) !

It will take place for the first time in its history in a setting that is completely welcoming. In the heart of Calvados, in the Normandy region, the charming coastal town of Merville-Franceville-Plage will in June host a race that we hope will become a regional staple. Just a stone’s throw from la Manche, you’ll breathe the open air and enjoy ideal conditions at the dawn of the summer season ☀️. At first glance, this race doesn’t look scary, right? Wait a minute… 😏

For the inauguration of this natural race, no fuss: a single distance of 7 km is on the program. But we assure you, it will be more than enough for your calves! Because yes, even if the setting will be wonderful, you’ll have to push hard to conquer these kilometers endiablés ensablés 🥵. Far from the asphalt you’re used to stepping on, you’ll actually have to face the sand to reach the finish line. Don’t worry, it won’t be as awful as you think! Besides, running on a soft surface like sand has a few advantages: you’ll engage your lower body muscles more, helping you build strength. Yes, you heard right—you can totally refine your summer body on this race 🤣. So, in the end, nothing to fear!

Okay, the surface might be new to you, but no stress: you won’t need to wear a watch, because the race isn’t timed! That means you can run a bit more laid-back along the beaches, sand dunes and paths that will line your route 😎. You’ll also have plenty of time to admire the impressive redoute de Merville : an old military fortification built in 1779 it served to protect the coast from potential English attacks. Classified monument historical since 1978, you won’t want to miss this majestic horseshoe-shaped building. Well, you’ve got it—the payoff will be worth it because you’ll be extending your strides in a truly idyllic setting. At sunset, by the sea, in preserved nature… a pure delight for the eyes! 🤩

After punishing your calves, how about a more relaxed post-race? For that, there’s nothing better than a stroll in the Gros Blanc bird reserve in the Orne estuary, where you can admire the fauna and flora of this preserved site. And to close this wonderful Norman interlude, don’t hesitate to sample local specialties: among the scallops and the Isigny caramel 🍬, the region will surely delight your taste buds.