Can you tell us how you got into trail running?
“When I started out, trail running was not very well known in France. In 2001 I took part in my first trail, the now famous Trail des Templiers. It was launched in 1995 by Gilles Bertrand around Millau. Today, over 12,000 people take part every year. At the time, people thought I was crazy to run a 70 km race in the middle of nowhere!
Tell us about the Trail d’Aqui, how did you come up with this itinerary project?
With the diversity of its landscapes, the Terres d’Aveyron region is an incredible playground! I started trail running on these paths and wanted to share their beauty with other trailers. So I contacted the Comtal, Lot et Truyère Community of Communes, which manages the development of this territory in northern Aveyron, and offered to draw up the trails. The result is 500 km of paths and monotraces spread over 21 communes.
In your opinion, what makes the quality of the Trail d’Aqui courses?
Without question, the variety of terrain that makes up the Terres d’Aveyron! With such variety, the trails we offer are just as suitable for beginners as they are for those who want to test themselves against the difficulties. What’s more, you’ll discover some extraordinary panoramas! Promoting our heritage was also part of our philosophy. The trails will take you through picturesque villages, immersing you in the heart of nature, as well as discovering buildings that are sometimes forgotten along the way.
A little extra?
Yes, we’re offering two vertical half-kilometer trails – one in the Entraygues-sur-Truyère area, the other spread out over Saint-Côme-d’Olt, Lassouts and Gabriac. With a vertical drop of 500m+ in less than 4km, they are ideal for training for high difficulty races!
