The organisers of the Natureman triathlon in Verdon, France, propose that their event offers one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. Taking place in the region surrounding the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon or Grand Canyon du Verdon), in south-eastern France (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence), the 2015 event on 2-4 October promises some stunning scenery.
The Verdon Gorge is a river canyon about 25 kilometres long and up to 700m deep. It was formed by the Verdon River, which is named after its startling turquoise-green colour, one of the canyon’s most distinguishing characteristics.
With ‘an exceptional natural setting, and 2,200 athletes expected in 2015’, the organisers go on to point out that Natureman 2015 combines both a sports challenge and a discovery of the unique landscape, in an energy and atmosphere ‘like nowhere else’.
Natureman invites athletes and spectators to discover all the villages of the Verdon region, to meet local artisans, and to ‘live in the heart of an authentic landscape’. The organisers point to a number of pro athletes such as Arnaud Clément, Marcel Zamora and Mike Aigroz who have ‘succumbed to the charm of the Verdon and come back every year because of the unforgettable time they spend.’
Friday 2 October: New for 2015, the Naturcross
Cross triathlon combining swimming, mountain biking and trail running. The mountain bike route was directed by the first French XTERRA World Champion, and partner of the Natureman event, Nicolas Lebrun.
Distances: 1000m swimming – 20K mountain bike and 8K running
Saturday 3 October : Triathlon Ekiden l’Occitane
A sprint distance event invites athletes to discover the sport of triathlon, individually or on a relay team.
Distances: 500m swimming – 25K cycling and 5K running
Sunday 4 October: Natureman
Distances : 2000m swimming – 90K cycling and 20K running
