For one evening, the smallest town in the world made way for runners for a corrida through its streets. Organised by Rotary club Durbuy, this grand premiere attracted record crowds.
No, it wasn't the Christmas market lights that had been left on, just one month after New Year's Eve. The 680 headlamps that broke the darkness of the smallest town in the world could have been misleading. Because the first Corrida de Durbuy plunged the narrow streets into magic. Between effort and festive atmosphere, the fanfare mingling with the rhythm of the strides, simple joggers curious to discover the medieval city rubbed shoulders with frenzied competitors in search of a prestigious victory.
Rotary club Durbuy, which organised the event, can boast of having broken a participation record in the region for a first edition. "We are delighted with the turnout," says Barbara Leboutte. "Not only were there local runners, but also quite a few Dutch-speaking tourists, proof that our race had a wide resonance. What's more, at this time of year, activity in Durbuy slows down significantly. Our race has helped to revive it. We were also able to help the Clairval special school, as the profits are donated to them. And the feedback from participants was very positive. We will definitely be continuing the adventure next year."
On a course that was sometimes fast, sometimes winding, two night race distances were offered: 5 and 10 km. Emma Ryon from Barvaux won the women's 5 km race. In the men's race, Lucien Dandoit from Namur won the sprint.
Over the four laps of the 2,500-metre circuit, another Barvaux resident topped the women's rankings: Juliette Londoz climbed to the top step of the podium. In the men's race, the battle was intense. After a long head-to-head battle, it was the experienced Jonathan Xhardez who prevented Guillaume Pousseur from raising his arms in victory.
"The outcome was unexpected, to say the least," said the 40-year-old. "I was still warming up when the race started. I had to rush to the line, against the flow of runners, to be detected on the line. It was a real adrenaline rush!"
After the race, participants and supporters were treated to an after party with a DJ and a big raffle. Everyone agreed that this first edition lived up to all expectations.
