In Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges this weekend, sports and heritage came together as the first Xtrail was organized at the foot of the cathedral by the AICA hunters of Saint-Bertrand-Valcabrère.
What started as a challenge turned into a real achievement with 430 runners on the starting lines of the 15 and 25 km races.
Among the participants, many from Toulouse and the Basque Country came together, all agreeing on the quality of the welcome, course selection, and marking.
From picking up race bibs to crossing the finish line, satisfaction was evident on the faces of all involved. A well-deserved reward for the organizers who faced a challenging task. “It represents approximately 6 months of work, but in the end, it paid off,” said Jean-Christophe Pène, one of the AICA members, who, along with Jonathan Balat, Enzo Palomé, Pierre Lafontaine, and Jean-Noël Oiry, the president of the association, rolled up their sleeves for route planning and marking. If some doubted the organizers’ ability to carry out a project of this scale, the result quickly dispelled those doubts. A successful gamble for the AICA and nearly 80 volunteers ensured the smooth running of this widely acclaimed first edition, notably praised by Mayor Marie-Claire Uchan and councilor Patrice Rival, who together presented the awards for the 25 km race. “I sincerely congratulate the AICA for this beautiful showcase of Saint-Bertrand and our trails; this event has allowed people to discover the surroundings of the town. A fantastic event for the tourist influence of our region,” said the elected official.
Alongside the sporting aspect, the lower town vibrated with a craft market and local producers, with a meal attended by over 200 guests. Buoyed by this success and general enthusiasm, the staff is already looking towards the future.
The official date is set for April 18, 2027.
