Course contre le Diabète 2026

The Course contre le Diabète (Race Against Diabetes) takes place in Cergy, near Paris. The event is held in early November, a few days before World Diabetes Day on November 14th. The average autumn temperature in the Île-de-France region is between 7 and 11°C, with a possibility of rain. The race starts from the Île de loisirs de Cergy-Pontoise, a 250-hectare recreational area with lakes and water bodies, located on the Oise River between Cergy and Neuville-sur-Oise. The course is flat and fast, following parts of the Axe Majeur, a contemporary art installation by Dani Karavan. Three formats are offered: a 5 km race suitable for beginners, a 10 km race for those aiming for a personal best, and a family walk. The event is organized by the Lions Club of Cergy Ville Nouvelle and the Maison du Diabète et de la Nutrition 95 (MDN95) as a charity race to fund diabetes prevention and education programs. The MDN95 provides free health services and travels the Val-d'Oise region in a 'Diabéto Minibus'. On-site, free diabetes screening and blood glucose testing are available. Awards, including cups and medals, are given to the top three finishers in each category for both men and women. The family walk is open to all ages. Post-race, participants can explore the Axe Majeur, including the Verger des Impressionnistes (Impressionist Orchard) with its 870 fruit trees, a nod to Camille Pissarro. Nearby attractions include Auvers-sur-Oise, known for its association with Vincent van Gogh, and the Vexin français regional park. The recreational area also hosts other events like the Tour des Étangs de Cergy and the Essec Night Run.