Running enthusiasts can look forward to the 41st edition of the Grande Vadrouille in Vaudreuil-Dorion this Sunday, September 15.

For four decades now, the Grande Vadrouille has given running enthusiasts the chance to take part in a race worthy of the greatest marathons, through the streets of Vaudreuil-Dorion.

“La Grande Vadrouille has a long history. Over 60,000 participants have run through the streets of Vaudreuil-Dorion over the past 41 years,” confided Jean-Pierre Champagne, founding member of the Vaudreuil-Dorion athletics club.

Mr. Champagne took advantage of the press conference announcing the race to salute the volunteers who get involved year after year in organizing the event. He also invited the partners, including Vaudreuil MNA Marie-Claude Nichols, the City of Vaudreuil-Dorion and Caisse Desjardins de Vaudreuil-Soulanges, to take the floor. 

“I'm always happy to be asked to take part in the Grande Vadrouille. It's an event that brings people together in Vaudreuil County, and I'd like to thank the organizers for putting on an activity like this for our citizens, to keep them in shape. You can always count on my support. You are dedicated volunteers,” she added.

For his part, Richard Dubois of Desjardins Vaudreuil-Soulanges praised the fact that the Grande Vadrouille has become an event of regional identity. “It's important for the region to always have activities that, over time, become part of its identity, and the Grande Vadrouille is a good example of this. Desjardins is proud to support the Grande Vadrouille. We come back year after year because we see the difference this event makes in our community. I salute the work of Mr. Champagne and his team.“

Representing the mayor of Vaudreuil-Dorion, city councillor François Séguin emphasized the importance of the Grande Vadrouille in the community, but especially the volunteers who get involved. 

A trio of ambassadors

For a second year, the Grande Vadrouille will be supported by a trio of female ambassadors. “You know, in Canada and Quebec, running and athletics are not the most popular sports. That's why it's important for me, and for the whole Grande Vadrouille team, to recognize our athletes. That's what the ambassador program is all about. Once a year, during the Grande Vadrouille, we give our athletes the recognition they deserve, because they work so hard,” says race director Sarah Champagne.

“The three girls we chose this year stand out positively for their team spirit, their good attitude and above all for the respect they have for their sport and the logo they wear,” adds the race director, adding. 

The honours went to Romy Langevin, Sarah Lebrun and Norah Martin.

The race

As usual, 1 km, 2 km, 5 km, 10 km and 15 km courses are available to runners. The various courses will take place in the streets of Vaudreuil-Dorion, notably on Chemin de l'Anse, which offers a breathtaking view of Lake of Two Mountains. The start will be, as tradition dictates, on the Cité-des-Jeunes campus at 8 a.m.

Although online registration is now closed, it is still possible to register on site, starting at 7:30 a.m.