Numerous participants at the 45th edition of the International Bessans Marathon! With over 1350 cross-country skiers over the weekend, enthusiasts of cross-country skiing could indulge their passion on a trail of remarkable quality. Freshly fallen snow, cool nights, and thorough work by the trail groomers – the formula for the success of an extraordinary International Marathon de Bessans.

Three events were on the program this Sunday, including tracks for everyone in the freestyle, for young and old. The main race over 23/42 km brought together 850 cross-country skiers with varying levels. From the passionate amateur taking on his first challenge of 2024 to the experienced athlete seeking victory, there were many motivations at the starting line. Sport for all in a single event – that is the essence of such gatherings.

Bessans can once again add two new winners to its list of successes, and not unknown ones. Already victorious in 2019, Emilie BULLE, a member of the US AUTRANS, secured her win after 1 hour, 50 minutes, and 35 seconds, distancing her competitors by several minutes. In the men’s category, Maurice MANIFICAT demonstrated his experience with a perfect race strategy, finishing the race in 1 hour, 37 minutes, and 5 seconds. The four-time Olympic medalist applied pressure at the right moment and maintained the gap from the rest of the field.

In addition to the high-performing elites, top athletes, and experienced cross-country skiers, the International Bessans Marathon also brought together hundreds of motivated amateurs who participated in the race without timing, in the Just For Fun Run. Pure enjoyment for these amateur cross-country skiers, some of whom wore their first race bib.

Here are the results.