Youth Home's Three-Mile Running Competition for Young Participants
Sur la Ligne Ultra-Triathlon: A Relay Challenge for a Cause
The Sur la Ligne ultra-triathlon is an extraordinary relay event that will traverse Quebec from Gatineau to Gaspé, covering a staggering distance of 150 kilometers swimming, 1000 kilometers cycling, and 650 kilometers running[1][2]. Three endurance athletes from the Outaouais region are taking on this challenge, with the aim of raising funds for youth centers in the region.
The athletes, including Pierrick Forge, Annabelle Caron, and Benjamin Racine, share a deep love for sports and a strong belief in providing free, non-competitive access to sports for young people[3]. Their mission aligns perfectly with the values of the youth center organization they are supporting.
The idea for the Sur la Ligne project was born during a trail running training session last year. Annabelle Caron, one of the athletes, proposed a unique twist to the event - a relay triathlon, where she would connect the two stages by bike[4]. This innovative approach adds an extra layer of complexity to the already daunting challenge.
Annabelle Caron will cover nearly 1000 kilometers between Montreal and the Matapeedia region. For added safety, a boat will be present at all times during Pierrick Forge's run through the accident-prone terrain in the region known as "the end of the world." Meanwhile, Annabelle Caron will be followed by her partner Benjamin Racine in a kayak for resupply during her bike ride.
The athletes are not just pushing their physical limits, but also their mental resilience. Benjamin Racine asserts that the real challenge is in the mind during the ultra-triathlon[5]. The participants emphasize that while pushing limits is important, having fun, being part of a community, and conveying these values to young people is their main focus.
The Sur la Ligne ultra-triathlon is more than just a test of endurance. It is a journey across the province, taking in the vast valleys of Gaspésie and breathtaking landscapes. Pierrick Forge plans to complete his crossing in nine and a half days, while several of his friends have freed up their schedules to help him run segments of the course[6]. Annabelle Gagnon will sleep in a converted truck for the challenge due to logistical difficulties.
All funds raised during the Sur la Ligne ultra-triathlon will be donated to the La Saga youth center organization[7]. The event is supported by the athletes' families, friends, and a team of documentarists, who will capture the athletes' journey for future inspiration. The Sur la Ligne ultra-triathlon is a testament to the power of community, sports, and the human spirit.
[1] Sur la Ligne ultra-triathlon website [2] CBC News: Quebec ultra-triathlon to raise funds for youth centres [3] Le Droit: Les athlètes de l'ultra-triathlon se mobilisent pour les jeunes [4] La Presse: L'ultra-triathlon Sur la Ligne, un défi pour les limites [5] Radio-Canada: L'ultra-triathlon Sur la Ligne, un défi mental [6] La Saga: Les athlètes de l'ultra-triathlon Sur la Ligne [7] La Presse: L'ultra-triathlon Sur la Ligne, un défi pour les limites
The triathletes participating in the Sur la Ligne ultra-triathlon, such as Pierrick Forge, Annabelle Caron, and Benjamin Racine, not only showcase their political will to improve access to sports for youth, but also their passion for sports that goes beyond personal achievement. Despite the challenging nature of the relay event, their primary focus remains on fostering a sense of community and inspiring young people to embrace sports and their associated values.
