Brooks Marathon du Lac d’Annecy: 45th edition gets underway this weekend

People come for the setting. With the Alpine mountains rising like imposing spectators around the lake, the scenery looks straight out of a postcard. In 45 years, the course has barely changed. It is an out-and-back route following the cycle path along the lake’s western shore, with stretches through the city, the Jardins de l’Europe, and the Marais de l’Enfer, where lush vegetation lines the route, before finishing at Le Pâquier, one of Annecy’s iconic landmarks.

1,000 extra places for the marathon

This year, the marathon’s flagship race sold out in just three days. To mark the anniversary, the organizers were able to increase the field from 4,500 to 5,500 runners. « The cycle path used by the runners has been widened, which is why we were able to increase the field. Otherwise, safety considerations limit our capacity », the organizers explain. The two-day event features several race formats: 5K, 10K, half marathon, children’s races and Nordic walking. All races will start in Annecy’s Old Town and finish in the heart of Le Pâquier.

After Vendée Globe skipper Violette Dorange took part in the half marathon in 2025, journalist Hugo Clément will line up for the 42.195K this year, his first road marathon. In the half marathon, Théo Detienne, winner of the 90K at the 2025 Marathon du Mont-Blanc, is expected to be one of the favorites. 

A marathon built around its local associations

For 45 years, Annecy Haute-Savoie Athlétisme has led the organization of this major event, a distinctive feature that means a great deal to everyone involved. A real economic engine, the Brooks Marathon du Lac d’Annecy helps fund the club’s activities, including the travel required by its Elite 1 team.

For the second year in a row, the organizing club has the support of American brand Brooks. « The association comes first for us, and that is very important. Brooks is here to support us and help with visibility and the runner experience, particularly at the marathon village », the organizers explain. In just one year, the strength of the naming partnership has given the event a real boost. The race relies on a network of local associations to bring the lake marathon to life. In return, it supports them with race entries and other contributions, as well as financial grants to help fund their community projects. 

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