Chinon Marathon draws 3,500 runners for its fourth edition

While more than 58,000 runners lined up for the Paris Marathon, 3,500 took part in Chinon across the weekend’s three races: the marathon, half marathon and 10K. The town centre came alive with a true celebration of running.

8:45 a.m. on Quai Danton, with Chinon’s royal fortress rising opposite the start line. The starting gun sent 1,000 runners off on the headline race in ideal conditions. They tackled two loops taking in the town centre, the banks of the Vienne, vineyards and a greenway. A spectacular setting, matched by a lively atmosphere.

Live music and the constant support of the spectators carried the runners through the adventure. Whether they were racing the marathon, half marathon or 10K, participants filled all three events several months before race day.

Although the event is still relatively young, it has already secured a firm place on the racing calendar. Its popularity has grown with every edition over the past four years. The field is a varied one, bringing together athletes chasing a fast time and recreational runners drawn to the event’s distinctive identity.

An outstanding marathon won in 2:25:26

The race carries an official label and serves as a qualifier for the French Marathon Championships. A sign of the level on display, Eric Hérault took the win in 2:25:26. He was followed closely by Hugo Bossis in 2:26:39 and Brice Le Lesle in 2:30:57.

In the women’s race, Elsa Perrin dominated, winning in 3:01:40. Carole Paugam (3:09:38) and Emilie Fravallo (3:12:53) completed the podium.

A bronze-label half marathon

The half marathon also served as a qualifier for the French Championships. Frédéric Dien controlled the race to win in 1:13:36. Rodolphe Georget (1:14:32) and Benoît Delepine (1:14:36) finished second and third respectively after a particularly close sprint to the line.

In the women’s race, Marjorie Moron was the fastest in 1:23:55. Julia Bruni (1:28:05) and Emilie Lièvre (1:34:03) took silver and bronze.

A popular 10K

The most accessible race on the programme, the 10K attracted runners of all abilities. Lucien Mercier took the win in 31:59, ahead of Louis Navineau (32:32) and Alan Brunet (32:37). Sophie Rocheteau came out on top in the women’s race in 38:12, ahead of Steffy Dinot (38:15) and Léna Le Tiec (39:07).

A complete race experience

Beyond its official labels and approachable courses, which make it an ideal first marathon, the organisers are determined to give participants lasting memories. With a marathon village, pasta party, local food tastings and original race rewards, including the magnum of wine handed to marathon finishers, the experience goes well beyond the race itself.

An accessible, richly varied course

The course is accessible despite its gently rolling profile, with around 250 metres of elevation gain. For runners who appreciate a scenic route, the Chinon Marathon blends medieval heritage, fortresses, vineyards and racing. Pacers were available to guide marathoners from 3:00 to 4:30.

Around the town, Château de Chinon is an essential stop. So are the Bourgueil vineyards and their local wines, along with the Maison de Rabelais in Seuilly, the Balzac Museum in Saché and the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park.

Set among picturesque vineyards and iconic châteaux, the Chinon Marathon is increasingly establishing itself as a major event with a strong identity.

➜ All the results from the 2026 Chinon Marathon