Annecy Marathon celebrates a triumphant 44th edition

Simion Kameto and Magali Aureille shine in the marathon

More than 3,500 motivated runners lined up for the Annecy Marathon. The race sold out in no time a few weeks earlier, and for good reason: the Annecy Marathon never disappoints. Road-running enthusiasts enjoyed perfect weather and meticulous organization as they chased fast times. A dream 42.195 km between lake and mountains, with the kind of scenery that keeps you moving through the pain and suffering.

It was Simion Kameto who proved fastest over the full distance. The Kenyan raised his arms on the Pâquier after 2:18:43 of racing. He held off Adrien Toucas (2:18:54), who produced a fantastic comeback, and Aurélien Olivier (2:21:51). In the women's race, Haute-Savoie colors took over the top step of the podium thanks to local runner Magali Aureille (2:38:06). It was a strong podium, with Floriane Hot (2:39:19) and Émilie Tissot (2:47:20) taking second and third respectively. The race was also lifted by the crowd's passion and energy. A total of 3,702 runners crossed the finish line and proudly collected their finisher medals.

✔ See the Annecy Marathon results

Joseph Koech and Nina Voelckel take the half marathon

The half marathon followed the same script. Bibs were snapped up, with just over 4,000 runners securing their place. The flat, fast course runs out and back along the turquoise waters of Annecy, giving Kenyan Joseph Koech the perfect platform to triumph. The event record holder crossed the line in 1:03:16 ahead of compatriot Brian Kipchumpa (1:04:28). Maxime Bargetto completed the podium in 1:05:21. In the women's race, Nina Voelckel lived up to her billing as the favorite, winning in a blistering 1:11:39. A personal best and second place went to French runner Manon Coste (1:14:34). Cloé Hotte rounded out the podium in 1:16:22.

Among the field, sailing fans spotted Violette Dorange, who finished 25th in the most recent Vendée Globe. The French skipper took on the challenge in style, completing the half marathon in 1:57:45. Also back in the pack was Anaïs Quemener (1:27:19), just three months after giving birth to her son.

✔ See the Annecy Half Marathon results

© Brooks Annecy Lake Marathon

Koech doubles up in the 10K  

A total of 2,554 runners took on the 10K around Lake Annecy. After dominating the half marathon the day before, Kenyan Joseph Koech completed the double by winning the 10K in 29:34. It was a major performance from the Kenyan, who finished with a comfortable lead over runner-up Mael Henric (29:58). Cyril Vincent-Viry took third in 30:01.

In the women's race, French international Caroline Dennilauler (34:15) won convincingly. The young French runner led from gun to tape. Laurina Arche (35:43) and Laurie Lindekens (35:53) completed the podium. Of the 2,554 starters, 2,530 made it across the finish line.

✔ See the Annecy 10K results

A total success for the Annecy Marathon

Atmosphere, performances, scenery, weather, organization... the list of successes is a long one for one of France's most beautiful marathons, if not the very best. With more than 10,000 runners taking part over the weekend, the Annecy Marathon was a genuine success, thanks not only to its setting but above all to the team behind it. Leading the way were Annecy Haute Savoie Athlétisme and its hundreds of volunteers. The organizing team, which welcomed running brand Brooks as its title partner, delivered another flawless edition. With race distances ranging from 5K to the marathon, several days of activities and an appealing partners' village, the event attracted a broad audience that stayed engaged throughout the weekend.

So what's next? All that's left is to mark the date of the 45th edition in your calendar. One thing is certain: the Annecy Marathon has all the makings of an unmissable event. Whether you come to chase a personal best, line up for your first race or simply soak up the unique atmosphere beside the lake, everyone heads home with a head full of memories... and the urge to come back.