This Lot-et-Garonnais will travel 865 km in the Pyrenees in memory of a friend

Christophe Bigeon, from Montjoyard, is embarking on an extreme sporting challenge across the Pyrenees: walking 865 km in less than 17 days. A challenge, as he did two years ago, to fly the flag for associations that are dear to him.

Starting August ^1st , hikers will be able to see Montjoyard Christophe Bigeon setting off from the Bellegrade de Perthus fort as he ventures into the Pyrenees. The forty-year-old has signed up for the second time for the Transpyrénéa race, organized by the Raid Sahara organization. A complete crossing of the Pyrenees from east to west, it brings together more than 100 semi-autonomous ultra-trailers. "An extraordinary challenge," according to the association's president, Cyril Fondeville.

This isn't the athlete's first attempt: ultra-trail, triathlons... He's a fan of pushing himself. "I like to set myself somewhat extreme challenges, to challenge myself." In 2023, Christophe Bigeon ran for the Lovely Solidarity association , which helps women after breast cancer surgery. This year, he's also wearing the yellow colors of Oligocyte, an association that fights against brain tumors.

A commitment that is particularly close to his heart. "My best friend died of a brain tumor. We used to do a lot of sports together. This is to pay tribute to him." A way for him to highlight "organizations that we don't hear enough about" through a raid that emphasizes solidarity. Here, there are no stopwatches or rankings.

The man who had already covered more than 450 km during the 2023 season intends to double that mileage this year. "I was well prepared, but I learned several lessons that will help me be more efficient this time." Among last year's mistakes: a bag that was too heavy (15 kilos) and unfamiliarity with the route. "At the end of the eight days, my wife had never seen me in this state. I was exhausted and very thin."

Lesson one: take care of your body to double the distance. "The most important thing is to think of those who can't run. That's what gives me the strength to keep going."