DeVenir Half Marathon

The Rochefort ‘DeVenir’ Half Marathon: Running for youth and heritage.

The 4th edition is set to break participation records and show a strong commitment to fighting school dropout rates.

Charente-Maritime's flagship running event returns with a focus on solidarity and passing on knowledge. Combining sporting performance and charitable commitment, this year's Rochefort ‘DeVenir’ Half Marathon is mobilising more than 4,300 participants in aid of the Maison de la Parentalité de la MECS des Gonds. In partnership with Violette Dorange and the Apprentis d'Auteuil, it promotes the values of perseverance and integration through sport.

One event, three highlights: The weekend will begin with a unique reflective dimension before giving way to competition:

Saturday morning: Reflection. A round table dedicated to school dropouts, attended by sailor Violette Dorange (DeVenir project) and representatives of the Apprentis d'Auteuil.
Saturday afternoon: Passing on the torch. Children's races at the Corderie Royale. 300 young people (aged 3 to 16) will compete in five different formats. New this year, several young people from Apprentis d'Auteuil will take part thanks to race numbers provided by local partners.
Sunday morning: Pushing yourself. The start will be behind the Leclerc centre for two flagship events:
The 10 km (1,500 runners) and the Half Marathon (2,500 runners).

A journey through history and nature
The route, which is particularly ‘fast’ (70m elevation gain for the half marathon, 35m for the 10km), offers an exceptional setting. Runners will pass through the architectural gems of Rochefort before heading out onto the nature trails along the Charente river.

Solidarity in our DNA
Since its creation, the event has already donated more than €21,000 to various causes (Association Grégory Lemarchal, Ovale de l'Espoir, Familles en Fêtes). This year, all proceeds will go to support the Maison de la Parentalité de la MECS des Gonds, reinforcing the race's local and social roots.
‘We organise a popular race with heart. Our priority is that every runner, regardless of their level, leaves with a smile and pride in having helped a local cause.’ — Quentin Decriem.
Technical innovations.
For this edition, the organisers are simplifying the experience for runners: timing chips are now integrated directly into the race numbers, allowing real-time display as soon as the finish line is crossed.
Each finisher will be rewarded with a medal, a quality T-shirt and an ecocup, symbolising the event's commitment to sustainability.

Show less