Race to Save Your Train Line
Running 376 km from Nièvre to Ile-de-France in an effort to protect the threatened SNCF line: A journey to save more than just Paris.
Think "Marathon Relay" but with trains, wrapped in a 376-kilometer journey from Corbigny in Nièvre to Paris-Bercy station since May 1st. This thrilling race aims to save the worn-out train line in northern Burgundy, a route that local preservationists claim is at risk of closure due to its degradation and insufficient funding for renovation.
This weekend's event was inaugurated with enthusiasm, bringing together about a hundred people and the captivating melodies of a Brazilian percussion group, Batucada. As they took their starting marks, Adele, a passionate neighboring resident from Yonne, reminded everyone why train lines hold such importance:
Joining the chorus, Geoffrey Odille, a doctor and trail running enthusiast, vowed to participate in the race until the finish line at Paris-Bercy station next morning. But it's not just about completing the run; it's about conveying an urgent message. With a dedicated team of seven runners, including those covering 100km, 80km, they'll take turns day and night to complete the remaining 270km. Encouragingly, participants come in varying levels, ensuring a convivial atmosphere for everyone.
Fight for More Than Just a Rail Link
Beyond saving the forty-kilometer link, the team hopes the race will raise awareness about its continuous deterioration and the potential closure. Sandrine Saule of the Lignes à Défendre Bourgogne Nord collective remarks:
But it's not merely about preserving this rail link; it's also about promoting a sound regional planning approach. Fabien Bazin, the Nièvre Departmental Council's Socialist President, champions this perspective:
Indeed, the race's ultimate goal is to inspire action, from thinking critically about the preservation of local infrastructure to advocating for political funding for railway infrastructure improvements on a larger scale. focusing on figures like François Bayrou, who is presenting "Ambition France Transports," a major national conference on infrastructure financing this week in Marseille.
While the road to ensuring the survival of this rail line might be uncertain, the spirits of the runners remain unbroken as they take on the challenge, one relentless stride at a time. After all, saving a lifeblood of rural France is never a solo mission.
- The race from Corbigny to Paris-Bercy station isn't just about running; it's also about conveying an urgent message to safeguard the train line in northern Burgundy.
- A dedicated team of seven runners, including those covering 100km and 80km, will take turns day and night to complete the remaining 270km of the race.
- Sandrine Saule of the Lignes à Défendre Bourgogne Nord collective believes the race will help raise awareness about the rail line's continuous deterioration and potential closure.
- Fabien Bazin, the Nièvre Departmental Council's Socialist President, emphasizes that preserving the rail line and promoting sound regional planning are: "major political choices."
- François Bayrou, presenting "Ambition France Transports," a major national conference on infrastructure financing this week in Marseille, is a figure of inspiration for the race's ultimate goal: to advocate for political funding for railway infrastructure improvements on a larger scale.
