Saint-Étienne to Lyon – Night Run

Dario reports back on his experience running the freezing, windy, muddy, hilly and yet a magical and warm 72K chain of lights heading from Saint-Étienne to Lyon.

This was the 61th edition of “La SaintéLyon”, a historical French “running raid nocturne” which took place the night (and morning) between Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December.

I was among the 14000 “fous” who decided to spend an entire night running and drinking hot tea at the five aid stations on the mountains. My goal was to finish strong and after 9 hours, 10 minutes and 37 seconds (including breaks) I had a happy smile at the finish line.

This course requires specific training including uphill and downhill running in the dark. And a certain level of toughness and insanity.

If you are tempted by being inspired at your lowest point during a race by a “beware of bears” sign, please join me next year 😉