“The boats weigh at least 100 kg and measure 13 feet, the most common size in the Marais poitevin”, explains Baptiste Izambart, the president of “Conches et Rigoles”. This association organizes, on July 30 and 31, the 35th edition of the 24 Hours of the boat, in Saint-Hilaire-la-Palud (Deux-Sèvres). The idea of this endurance test, as serious as it is wacky, dotted with entertainment and concerts? Browse – from 3 p.m. and for a full day – the greatest number of laps with the sole strength of the arms on a closed circuit of 2.250 km. Rowing Le Mans, Poitevin version.
Each team is made up of two pairs called to take turns, as on the famous Sarthe circuit. “It’s often the sportiest moment,” smiles Baptiste Izambart. This race is for everyone but it requires stubbornness and mental strength! »
A record of 72 laps to beat
Manuel Balquet will not say the opposite: former president of the association, he is also the current record holder for the event with his galley comrades Alexis Longeau, Valentin Biraud and David Helis. “72 laps in 2017! We hadn’t been able to complete the 73rd but, this time, we are well prepared, the boat too”, laughs the Poitevin who has installed wedges at the feet and in the back “to be more powerful”.
Baptiste Izambart is sure: “To pass the 80 lap mark is quite a challenge. 72 laps already represents 162 km! A veritable “sports festival” bringing together an average of ten boats, the event ends with a draw. Each team having completed at least 55 laps can claim to win the grand prize, a travel voucher worth 800 euros. The former are offered a weekend with their friends in a private campsite.