OCS Pyrénées Ariégeoises
📍 Occitanie, France
roadgravelmtb
Date
5–7 September 2026
Distance
350km · 150km
Elevation
8,000 m
Difficulty
roadgravelmtb
Race Across France
Hendaye, France · 18–28 June 2026
Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal
The Race Across France offers ultra-cycling distances from 200km to 2500km, navigating mythic roads and wild landscapes across France. This extremely challenging event is considered the summit of ultra-cycling, requiring significant endurance and experience.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 200km · 300km · 500km · 1000km · 2500km
- Surface
- tarmac, gravel, singletrack
- Typical W/kg
- 2.5–4
Rider fit
Who it's for
This race is designed for highly experienced ultra-cyclists seeking to push their physical and mental limits across vast distances.
Who will struggle
Individuals without prior ultra-distance cycling experience, particularly those not meeting the stringent qualification criteria for the longer routes, will find this race exceptionally difficult.
Training focus
Training should emphasize long-duration endurance, efficient sleep management, robust navigation skills, and meticulous preparation for self-sufficiency and varied terrain.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What are the available distances for the Race Across France?+
The race offers several distances: 200 km, 300 km, 500 km, 1000 km, and 2500 km.
Are there any qualification requirements to participate in the longer distances?+
Yes, for the 1000 km and 2500 km distances, participants must demonstrate prior ultra-distance experience, such as finishing a shorter Race Across event or an equivalent long-distance ride.
What type of terrain can riders expect during the Race Across France?+
The race covers a variety of terrains, including classic road routes, gravel sections, and potentially mountain bike trails, traversing diverse landscapes across France.
Where do the different distances start and finish?+
The 2500km starts in Hendaye, the 1000km and 500km in Albertville, and the 300km in Bollène. All routes, except the 200km, finish at the Centre Expo Congrès in Mandelieu-la-Napoule, which is also the start and finish for the 200km.
Are there any support points provided during the race?+
Yes, the longer routes include "bases de vie" (life bases) such as Créon, Orléans, Albertville, and Bollène for the 2500km, which offer comfort, exchange, and places to meet support crews.
What is the overall format of the Race Across France?+
It is an ultra-cycling event where participants choose a distance to cover, navigating diverse routes with specific start windows and a common awards ceremony. The event emphasizes self-sufficiency and endurance over multiple days.
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