La Rouchonette

La Rouchonette is an early-July road running event in Roche-la-Molière, Loire department, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. It is part of the town’s summer festival. Children run first, followed by adults for a short city race of about 7 to 8 km. Some versions also offer 1 km and 5 km options. The event is non-timed, suiting its mix of runners, families, juniors, and those attending for the social aspect. The course is contained within the town. Past routes have used a 2.250 km loop and a longer adult race starting with a 1 km section. Children’s races are offered in 500 m, 1000 m, and 1500 m distances, allowing younger participants their own start before the main adult race. The evening includes entertainment, DJ music, food trucks, a meal, and fireworks launched from the base of the castle. Organizer Jérôme Michon recalls assisting at aid stations as a child, handing sponges to runners, highlighting the race’s local origins.