Pierre Chassaigne runs for Handi-Relais

Saint Barth Triathlon resident Pierre Chassaigne took part in the 10th Lacanau Triathlon (1.9km swim, 87km bike and 21km run) on May 3 and 4. The triathlete finished 1st in the 54/59 age category and placed 93rd out of 350 participants in the overall classification, with a total race time of 4 hours and 45 minutes. "It was a tough competition with a top-class field. On the start line, there were around thirty professional triathletes, including a world champion, a multiple French champion and the Paris 2024 Paralympic vice-champion," emphasizes Pierre Chassaigne. In the long-distance race, the Saint-Barth once again performed well. "I swam in Lacanau lake, which was 18 degrees Celsius, rode in headwinds of over 30 km/h on the bike for almost 40 kilometers, and ran on a mix of sand, grass and bike paths, which wasn't great for support... It was really hard on the body. But I was running for a good cause, and that's my plus point! As he explains, Pierre Chassaigne is wearing the colors of the Handi-Relais association, with the aim of raising public awareness and funds for the organization. A further motivation in his preparation for the world championships in November. He explains: "The idea was born at the end of the Puerto Rico Half Ironman last March.
Sébastien Plasse, owner of Zion Gym, and I were taking part in the event. As we talked, we thought it would be great to run under the colors of the "Handi-Relais" association, to give visibility to an organization that helps people with disabilities. We thought it was a very appropriate choice. Since then, I've been wearing their colors at every triathlon I take part in". On the strength of this successful start to the adventure, the collaboration between the Handi-Relais association, Zion Gym and triathlete Pierre Chassaigne is continuing. On June 14, a "Hyrox Contest", a competition combining running and physical exercise, is being organized in mixed teams of two people. "The funds raised by this event will finance the purchase of launching chairs for people with reduced mobility, so that everyone can enjoy the beach," explains Pierre Chassaigne. Open to all, the competition will also be an opportunity to raise awareness of disability among able-bodied people, with the participation of members of the Handi Relais association. Marcel Lignon, a disabled athlete, will be a partner in this event, which promotes inclusion through sport.
To register for the Hyrox Contest on June 14, contact Sébastien Plasse (0690 53 52 12) and if you would like to make a donation to the Handi Relais association, contact Manuella Lédée (0690 33 42 87).