What is the Nice-Cannes marathon?
On Sunday, November 28, 2021, we were able to follow the Nice-Cannes Alpes-Maritimes relay marathon race with our team of champions ! We followed this experience and managed to interview our team before and after the race! But first, what exactly is the Nice-Cannes relay marathon?
Simply put, the Nice-Cannes marathon is a relay race along the beautiful coastline of the Alpes-Maritimes department, covering over 40km . The race starts in Nice at the famous Place Masséna and finishes in Cannes, the city of cinema. This race is open to everyone , but especially to those who want to push their limits in a race that can be run as a relay , solo , in pairs , or as a 20km individual . There's something to suit every type of runner !
Interview with the Noliju team
A week before the race, we asked our team a few questions and we realized something: you don't need to be a professional athlete to run a marathon. Here's the proof:
- A few lines to introduce yourself:
Stéphanie MARGOT, I'm 47 years old and I work as an administrative and financial manager in Mandelieu. My hobbies are diverse and varied, but sports are my favorite. Divorced and a mother of two grown sons, aged 15 and 21 , I manage to juggle work, family, and leisure, and I even find time to run a marathon!
My name is Caroline Poupart, I am 39 years old , married, and the happy mother of three children. I am a financial manager and head of the DFCG au Féminin Côte d'Azur within the Association of Financial Directors and Management Controllers.
- How did you get started and what motivates you in running?
I started running in September 2019 with the goal of getting in shape and losing weight quickly. I was 45 years old at the time. Initially, it was incredibly difficult. My heart rate was extremely high, and the runs were pure agony. However, it was this very challenge and pushing myself beyond my limits that motivated me to persevere . I always feel prouder when the effort is sustained and I give it my all to succeed.
Running helps me eliminate toxins from my daily life . I always feel lighter and so much better afterwards. It's a treatment for both mind and body ; it's magical!
I come from a family where sport has always been very important, just like culture in general. Unlike tennis , which I also play, running is a sport you can do almost anywhere and almost anytime . All you need is a pair of running shoes and, of course, the Noliju Ultimate pants! When I go for a run, it's time for myself ! Time to let my thoughts wander, reflect, and gain perspective. There are few moments in everyday life when we have that kind of time. Generally, after a good run, my mind is much clearer !
- Can you tell us how you prepare physically and mentally ahead of the Alpes-Maritimes Nice-Cannes relay marathon?
I participated in the 2019 relay marathon with Noliju . I wasn't prepared at all, but I was thrilled to represent the Noliju team. Afterwards, I joined AC Cannes and regularly attended training sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Unfortunately, the pandemic disrupted this routine. In 2021, I started again with race goals, more determined than ever. First, the Spartan Race Estérel in early October: an 11km run with 25 obstacles and 120 burpees as penalties. Then, the Cannes 10K this past weekend, and finally, the November relay marathon with Noliju . Physically, I've lost three kilos of fat without losing muscle mass, and I feel fitter than ever. Mentally, I'm stronger because I'm proud of my consistency and perseverance!
I'm so excited about this relay marathon, which I did two years ago! More than just a performance, it's about the atmosphere and the team pushing themselves to the limit to support this relay from Nice to Cannes! I run at least once a week and try to fit in two runs, but sometimes it's harder to find the time! But I'm not worried, because I know I'll be carried along by the other runners!
- What are you thinking about when you run?
I clear my head. I listen to music and congratulate myself on my effort .
I can't tell you! Those are far too personal thoughts! No, I'm just kidding! Generally, I reflect , I daydream , I imagine the future . I rarely think about the evening's " to-do list "...
- Do you have any advice for those who practice running or who would like to start?
" Feel the fear and do it anyway ." You have to dare to take up running. I always thought that only the best could improve, but that's wrong. I've improved even though I run at a snail's pace; I still run faster than someone who does nothing, and I'm very proud of that!
You don't always have to run for performance! You have to find enjoyment in running! Find nice spots , find a pace you're comfortable with, etc. Some will find pleasure in performance and pushing their limits , while others will simply enjoy listening to good music while exercising! The most important thing is not to put pressure on yourself, especially for those returning after an injury or pregnancy; you have to rediscover the pleasure before the performance!
- Do you have any future plans in racing or any other sporting challenge?
Yes, I have many goals: the Prom'classic, the Spartan Race Carcassonne in May, Marseille-Cassis in October, and perhaps the Nice-Cannes marathon in November, if I feel ready! All of this at my own level and with all humility !
I run the classic 10K Promenade des Anglais every year! I love the race atmosphere! It's wonderful to see all these people running for the sheer joy of it! There are top athletes seeking performance or simply the pleasure of running , but also men and women running their first race whose only goal is to complete their first 10K! It's also worth mentioning that passing by the windows of Lenval Hospital with those sick children surrounded by the healthcare staff cheering you on is incredibly moving…
- For you, running is like…?
...pushing my limits !
… a bubble !
- Do you have any icons that inspire you on a daily basis? If so, why?
Yes, here's one that inspires me every day: Usain Bolt said, "Don't think about limits." In fact, when you think about it, we are our own only limits... so... No limits just you !
“If there’s a limit to everything, you have to know how to overcome it.” That sums me up well. because I always want to go further !
At the same time, Mary CARMEN, a runner on the team, also wanted to share her little moment of pleasure that she was able to share with the whole team, adding a final word that perfectly represents the spirit of the race:
“Participating in the relay marathon as part of the Noliju team proved to be an extraordinary and very rewarding experience.
I was delighted to share this unique moment surrounded by dynamic women in a cheerful and supportive atmosphere . It's the first time I've run such a distance, but thanks to Norah and the Nolijettes, who inspired me so much, I had the motivation to train and push myself!
The reward was huge for me since I managed to beat my own reference time on my leg of the relay and above all I had a huge amount of fun running!
Through this beautiful race, the Noliju spirit made me want to get out of my daily routine and seek a positive sporting mindset , a sign that at 40 , you can undertake anything with willpower and a winning spirit !
“ No Limit just you ” represents the perspective I was looking for to move forward and take on new challenges, so I proudly shout it: NO LIMIT JUST YOU !”
