La marche nordique de l'Erdre - La Chapelle-sur-Erdre 2026

La marche nordique de l'Erdre is a timed Nordic walking race held in La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, north of Nantes in Loire-Atlantique. It is based at the Buisson de la Grolle sports complex, situated on the Erdre riverbank, a Loire tributary. The main distance is approximately 12 km, with official listings ranging from 12.2 to 12.4 km. The event is organized by L'Athlétic Club Chapelain Athlétisme, affiliated with Nantes Métropole Athlétisme, and receives support from the French athletics federation and local athletics organizations. This event is more than a casual walk with poles. It holds a national label and is part of the Fédération Française d'Athlétisme's Marche Nordique Tour, offering qualification for the French championships. The field typically includes around 350 Nordic walkers, featuring skilled specialists and age-group champions. Jacques Boulet, a Masters 7 national champion and local participant, is among those associated with the race. The event village opens early at the sports complex, and the course follows the Erdre, avoiding a city-center loop.