LES FOULÉES DU GOIS

Having a site such as the Gois Causeway within one’s territory is certainly an asset. But how can we make the most of it? It was this question that, in 1986, gave rise to the idea of organising a race against the rising tide on the legendary cobbled streets of Le Gois, preceded by fun runs open to all on the uncovered road.

Race timetable:
(Low tide: 16:03, tidal coefficient 69=
- 10:00: Registration desk opens
- 12:30: Race 1: Children’s 900m (born between 2015 and 2019)
- 12.45: Presentation of athletes for Race 2: Ebb tide
- Around 1.15: Race 2: Ebb tide, 8,000 m
- 2.35: Race 3: Juniors 2,400m (born between 2011 and 2014)
- 3.15 pm: Race 4: Men’s Open (born before 2011)
- 4.25 pm: Race 5: Adapted Sport
- 4.35 pm: Race 6: Women’s Open (born before 2011)
- 5.40 pm to 6.00 pm: Athlete presentation for Race 7: Rising Tide (AS)
- Around 6.30 pm: Race 7: Rising Tide (AS)

Every year, the Foulées du Gois mobilises two doctors, 25 first-aiders and two Zodiacs, alongside the famous ‘Red Caps’ – the 250 or so volunteers from the ‘Les Amis du Gois’ association. The oyster farmers lend their support and make their barges available to the media so they can follow the runners’ battle against the rising tide live on camera. Technical support is provided by the ‘Étoile Sportive du Marais’ (ESM Challans) association. Since 2022, a new race has been introduced, featuring 30 male and female athletes running at low tide, representing a new approach and running technique.