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Before celebrating its 50th edition this Wednesday at the Olympic Stadium of La Pontaise, Athletissima highlighted youth this past weekend with its traditional Track Festival.
On the quays of Ouchy, the “Défi” brought together more than 500 participants of all ages and levels on a splendid 200m course, in an idyllic setting with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. A wonderfully diverse crowd, parents with children or strollers, runners with their dogs, and even someone on a unicycle, took the chance to measure themselves against the times set by local stars.
Seven personalities, including sprinter Sarah Atcho-Jaquier (the third-fastest Swiss woman over 200m) and Lausanne HC hockey players Makai Holdener and Floran Douay, set the benchmark times. An unforgettable experience for all participants in this fun and free challenge, which remains open on Monday, August 18 (2:00–6:00 pm) and Tuesday, August 19 (4:00–6:00 pm).
On Saturday afternoon, the Mini-Stars Relay brought together 100 teams across six categories. In the magnificent gardens of the Olympic Museum and under bright sunshine, more than 200 young runners passed the baton in this race designed to highlight teamwork. The event ended with a memorable autograph session with elite athletes, creating unforgettable moments of connection and emotion.
On Sunday, the Kids Training gave more than 200 children aged 8 to 15 the unique opportunity to train at the Stade Pierre-de-Coubertin with some of the 16 athletes present at the Festival, such as pole vaulter Valentin Imsand. The event was followed by strong performances from the eight best clubs in the region during the Club Cup Final on the same track. The ninth and final leg of this interregional competition crowned FSG Alle as champions. The Jura-based club, already winners in 2022, finished ahead of Lausanne-Sports Athlétisme and Stade Lausanne Athlétisme.
More than 300 schoolchildren from the region are expected to take part in the different activities leading up to Wednesday as part of the Athletissima Track Festival, which will allow over 1,200 participants to enjoy unique experiences.