On December 6, 2026, the Forêt de Rennes will come alive with runners of all abilities as they take to its rugged trails for an unforgettable day of competition and camaraderie. The race offers four distinct distances designed to cater to a wide range of athletes: a challenging 37km trail run, a slightly less daunting but still demanding 27km route, a moderate yet scenic 18km course, and a shorter, more accessible 10km option for those looking for an introduction or a fun challenge. The event kicks off early in the morning from Salle des Blanchets on Route de la Jutauderie in Thorigné Fouillard. Participants will find themselves immersed in the dense forest of Rennes, where the terrain varies between challenging single-track trails and sections along GR routes that wind through the woodland. The winter conditions mean runners should expect slippery and muddy paths, making trail shoes a necessity. This year's event introduces an exciting new feature: women are encouraged to team up for a unique duo challenge on the 27km course, aiming to increase female participation in longer distances. Additionally, there is continued support for gender parity on the shorter 18km route from last year’s successful initiative. Registration opens on October 2, at 6 PM and closes strictly by December 4th at midnight unless dossards remain available afterward with an additional fee applied to late registrations. Dossard pick-up will be held at Decathlon Rennes Betton Village la Forme between the afternoon of Saturday, December 5 (1:30-7:30 PM) and on race day before each wave starts. Participants can expect a variety of hydration stations along their routes with eco-friendly cups provided; however, runners are encouraged to bring reusable containers for sustainability reasons. The longer distances feature more frequent stops—three for the full 37km run, two at the 27km mark and one for those tackling the 18km route. Upon crossing the finish line, all athletes will be greeted with a hearty meal including galette and saucisse, accompanied by warm vin chaud to keep spirits high. These finishing touches are part of what makes this race more than just another run; it’s an experience that fosters community among runners while promoting environmental responsibility through initiatives like reduced waste practices. For those traveling from afar or preferring eco-friendly modes of transportation, the event organizers encourage carpooling and cycling as alternatives to minimize carbon footprints. Cyclists will find a designated area for bike parking near Salle des Blanchets where they can safely leave their bikes before heading into the forest. On-site facilities such as limited changing rooms, bathrooms, and showers are available at Salle des Blanchets along with a bag storage service ensuring runners have everything necessary to focus on enjoying this unique race experience.
