Not a dangerous sport… How to explain the longe

Several people aged 60 to 75 were practicing longe-côte, or coastal walking, on a beach in Le Conquet (Finistère) when they were surprised by the waves last Thursday. The tragic incident resulted in two women and one man losing their lives, while another woman remains in critical condition as of Monday. According to the Brest public prosecutor, the group was apparently caught in a swell, exacerbated by weather conditions, and were destabilized by the waves. Since the incident, the safety of the activity has been a topic of concern among practitioners.

Romain Leray, President of the Longe-côte club in La Baule, expressed shock at the incident and emphasized the importance of knowing the environment and how the beach changes with the tides. The group was practicing aquatic walking independently when they were swept away.

Longe-côte, often seen as an activity for older individuals, involves having water between the navel and armpits for immersion. It is crucial for participants to have a good level of immersion, but this can be challenging in strong currents, waves, or tides. Hence, it is essential to be well-acquainted with the surroundings and avoid venturing into rough seas, especially for seniors who may not be as physically equipped to handle such situations.

Safety regulations are emphasized in longe-côte practices, with trainers recommending group sessions with proper equipment such as a mobile phone and safety buoy. Practicing with an experienced guide is essential to mitigate risks associated with currents and tides.

In the realm of longe-côte, tragedy struck again with the passing of Sophie Jacquot, a former French champion, due to a heart attack during a competition in Carnon. The incident highlights the importance of prevention and safety measures in the sport to ensure the well-being of practitioners. The discipline continues to attract more enthusiasts, underscoring the need for ongoing safety awareness and education to prevent accidents.