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2026-01-10 06:35:00 –
French runner Étienne Daguinos is preparing for a 10km race in Florida on Saturday, aiming to contribute to a team medal while acknowledging the challenges of travel and competition conditions.
- Étienne daguinos is preparing for a 10km race in Florida on Saturday at 6:20 p.m. French time.
- The French team is aiming for a team medal, believing three riders in the top 10 and one in the top 20 is statistically necessary.
- Daguinos acknowledges the challenges of jet lag and adapting to the Florida climate, but is focused on performing for his team.
French Runner Daguinos Prepares for Challenging 10km Race in Florida
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Florida,USA –
Étienne Daguinos is preparing to compete in a 10km race in Florida on Saturday,focusing on a strong team performance despite the logistical challenges of international travel. Daguinos spoke on Thursday, outlining his preparations and expectations ahead of the race, which begins at 6:20 p.m. French time.
Daguinos reported minor travel disruptions, noting that while his flight was delayed, his competition gear was safely with him in the cabin. He is adjusting to the Florida climate, which he described as around 20 degrees Celsius and humid, a change he prepared for based on his experience at the Tokyo Track Worlds. “I did a bit of treadmilling and sauna work before I got here, I hope it works out,” he said.
Fitness and Team Strategy
This race will be Daguinos’ first since October.He stated he completed two or three training sessions to prepare, including interval work and longer runs to regain race rhythm. He explained that preparing for a 10km race requires “shocking the body a little because it will run relatively fast so you have to be prepared.”
The primary objective for the french team is a team medal, a goal national manager bastien Perraux believes is achievable.Daguinos echoed this sentiment, stating, “For a medal, you need three riders in the top 10 and one in the top 20. That would be enormous!” He emphasized a commitment to giving his best effort, adding, “We will have to play at the forefront whatever happens to hope to do a good team event, so we will have to try. You won’t have to regret anything.”
Competition and Course Conditions
France is considered an underdog contender alongside Kenya, ethiopia, Uganda, and the United States, according to Bastien Perraux. Daguinos agreed, noting the strength of these nations, but highlighted France’s advantage with Jimmy Gressier, a silver medalist at the European Championship on December 14, as a key athlete.”Thay don’t have our advantage of having jimmy Gressier as headliner, who will pull us to the top,” Daguinos said. He also expressed confidence in his and Yann’s ability to compete at the front of the pack.
The course itself is described as a challenging mix of climbs and flats with 100 meters of elevation gain over 10km. Daguinos, after a course reconnaissance on Friday, noted the added difficulty of sand, mud, water passages, and logs, compounded by the heat. “It’s a magnificent course,” he concluded, despite the demanding conditions.
Why It Matters
the French team’s pursuit of a medal underscores the growing competitiveness of international distance running. While traditionally dominated by East African nations and the United States, European teams like France are increasingly challenging for podium positions. The emphasis on team strategy – requiring a strong collective performance with multiple athletes finishing in the top 20 – highlights a shift towards a more tactical approach in the sport, where depth and consistency are as crucial as individual brilliance. the team’s reliance on Jimmy Gressier’s leadership also demonstrates the importance of experienced athletes in guiding and motivating their teammates.
