Cross Ouest-France Pays-de-la-Loire - Le Mans

Cross Ouest-France Pays-de-la-Loire is a long cross-country race held annually at the Arche de la nature in Le Mans, France, since 1981. It was established by the Ouest-France newspaper and the City of Le Mans, and is organized by the Ligue d'athlétisme des Pays de Loire. The event includes various races: children’s and beginner events of 1 to 2 km, 3 km, 6 km, and 10 km races, plus Nordic walking, hiking routes, and a 24 km trail option. The cross-country setting differs from a road race, with participants competing on natural terrain instead of city streets. Professionals and amateurs compete together, and the race attracts international athletes alongside many children and local runners. Its first edition saw over 4,000 participants, and the event weekend has since reached five-figure fields across all disciplines. Vincent Rousseau and Driss el-Himer are the most successful men in the long race with three victories each, while Christine Loiseau holds the women’s record with three wins.