June brings us the first edition of a cross-border race—the Maratona des Gueules Noires, whose route will connect Saint-Amand-les-Eaux, France, to Dour, Belgium, the coal mining region. In this article, we tell you about this event, which pays tribute to the miners known as "gueules noires."

About the Marathon des Gueules Noires

This is an athletics event that includes a 42.195 km marathon as the main event and an adapted race, handisport. The route of the Marathon des Gueules Noires will take place on roads, paths, and historic areas in the region between Saint-Amand-les-Eaux, Condé-sur-L'Escaut, Hensies, Quiévrain, and Dour. Organized under the direction of Olivier Motte Benoit Avet, the event will provide technical and medical support, security, refreshment stations, shower facilities, and transportation for athletes. And, as a symbolic gesture, a miner's lantern will be lit at the start and extinguished by the last athlete to cross the finish line.

Parallel activities

As an event that celebrates the tradition and culture of generations of miners and their families, the Marathon des Gueules Noires had to be more than just running and sport—and so, participants in the races and the general public can enjoy activities such as entertainment and music with DJs, food trucks, and places to rest.

For this Marathon des Gueules Noires, steeped in history and paying tribute to the identity of a community, the organizer made a point of calling on Tributus to develop the trophies and medals that will be awarded to the winning athletes and to all those who cross the finish line. These pieces are made from wood and recycled acrylic, two of the materials in our sustainable range. If you would like to know more about our portfolio and personalized service, please contact us today.

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