Top 5 of the Best Running Races for Women in France
Looking to participate in running races in the coming months to gather with women or support a good cause? Here’s our top 5 women-only events for 2025!
1. Odysséa
When it comes to women-centric races, it’s hard not to mention the renowned Odysséa. Founded in 2002 by three determined women who were also mothers and former athletes, the first edition raised 10,000 euros for breast cancer research.
The event has become a staple in charity races, attracting millions of runners at each edition. Major cities across France and overseas, like Paris, Marseille, and Nantes, come together to run under the pink ribbon! To date, more than 16 million euros have been raised since the event’s inception, bringing together both women and men at the starting line, ready to run for a good cause.
Upcoming Editions: 12 races in France in 2025
2. La Marseillaise des Femmes
How can we celebrate women in the heart of Marseille? Since 2010, Le Club des Marseillaises has addressed this by organizing an all-women race in a warm and dynamic atmosphere. Participants embark on a 5 km course, a distance chosen to allow everyone to take part.
Much like Odysséa, La Marseillaise des Femmes has specific convictions: to democratize women’s sports, raise funds for medical research against breast cancer, and support women’s rights. These values align perfectly with those of running, such as resilience, solidarity, and pushing one’s limits.
Next Edition: May 18, 2025
3. La Parisienne
20,000 participants, 3 races, 27 years of history: La Parisienne is one of the oldest women-only races! What’s on the program? A 10 km race, a 7 km, and a walk. Alongside these events, women are celebrated over three days with numerous activities. Yoga, running, shows, music… They are also invited to fitness sessions, massages, and wellness product tests to take home! Paris hosts a festive weekend dedicated to sport and femininity. It’s a beautiful initiative to honor the women who shape our daily lives by offering them an experience centered around well-being and running.
Next Edition: June 8, 2025
4. Sine Qua Non Run
Standing strong to defend women’s bodies is the commitment upheld by the Sine Qua Non organizers. Since its creation, this Parisian event promotes sports as a response to gender-based and sexual violence that women often face, sometimes even in sports. The race includes a 10 km and a 6 km starting from Place de la République. The start time is deliberately chosen – at dusk, a time when many women feel most threatened. It aims to empower them to confront their fears and showcase their strength. Men are also invited to run in the spirit of “soro-fraternity” in a supportive atmosphere.
The goal is to dedicate all proceeds to the program RUN, PLAY, FIGHT, RIDE, MOVE FOR EQUALITY. This initiative organizes free sports sessions in 30 cities across France to democratize sports among women and boost their confidence! A wonderful project.
Next Edition: June 28, 2025
5. Flo’We Run
La Flo’We Run is a prevention-focused race and a tribute to all the mothers taken too soon, including Florence, who passed away in 2016. The cause? Peripartum cardiomyopathy, also known as Meadows syndrome. This condition affects mothers’ hearts in the last month of pregnancy or 5 to 6 months postpartum, potentially being fatal if not properly diagnosed. Since 2018, Flo’We Run has been committed to raising funds for research through the “Heart of Mothers Priority Prevention” initiative. It embodies Florence’s spirit: athletic, a mother, and full of life.
Join us in October to run between 3 and 10 km through Lille’s iconic streets. The capital of northern France hosts runners of all levels each year for a moment of sharing and togetherness!
Next Edition: November 2025
