A few weeks before the big departure, the atmosphere already promises to be memorable. From May 31 to June 2, between Caen and the Normandy landing beaches, the events of the Freedom Marathon, for which the runners jostle. The half marathon? Complete (5000 participants). La Rochambelle, for the benefit of research against breast cancer? Complete (7500 participants). The 10 km is almost full as is the flagship event, the marathon. “There were 2000 last year and now we are heading towards 5000. We expected it, but not necessarily from February. We also caught the wave,” smiles Nicolas Hassane, the director of the event.
The registered runners want to be part of this historic edition, a few days before the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings. In Picardy, Christian was looking for “a nice marathon to do after the one in Paris, which will be [son] first “. His choice fell on the Calvadosian event, as if it were obvious: “With the 80th, it can only be magnificent. We will follow in the footsteps of those who landed on June 6, 1944.” The marathon runs along, from Courseulles-sur-Mer, the D-Day beaches to Ouistreham before turning inland, along the canal and passing by Pegasus bridge, “the first bridge liberated”, from where will also start the half-marathon.
Perrine, from Caen, is delighted to take “emblematic trails”. She is also preparing for the biggest race of her life and the Freedom Marathon came at the right time in more than one way. In addition to this well-placed date, “the enthusiasm helps you decide to take the plunge,” says the runner. It will be more fun and affordable with so many participants and the activities around. We will be far from being alone.” “The biggest figures date back to the 50th anniversary of D-Day,” says Nicolas Hassane. In the 60th and 70th, there was a great stir but less than for the 80th. In addition, it is a very sporting year with the Olympic Games. » A double effect which announces an unprecedented frenzy.
The organization has even created a bib exchange in the event of withdrawal. It is also rethinking its logistics to accommodate the thousands of runners, many of whom come from beyond Normandy and even from abroad. Departure areas, transfers, shuttles, among others, to make the experience as comfortable as it is memorable. Because the stakes are there for the Freedom Marathon: that 2024 leaves its mark.
“Besides the physical prowess, there are historical and festive sides. I tell myself that it will mark me all my life and that I will share it with those around me,” says Christian. Picard will arrive on Saturday morning, June 1, with his partner, or even his children, to enjoy the atmosphere of the D-Day commemorations. “We will be amazed,” he projects. Perrine confirms: “We will have the chance to be in the front row. “. Like them, many of them will write their personal history in the footsteps of the great one. Some descendants of soldiers will participate to pay tribute to the heroes of June 6, encouraged all along the route by thousands of spectators.
