Paris-Saclay Running Tour

Embrace the spirit of innovation and inclusivity at the Paris-Saclay Running Tour, returning to the Île-de-France region this November with even more excitement. Last year’s inaugural edition welcomed 800 runners, setting a strong precedent for this second installment which now features both a marathon distance of 42.2 kilometers and a fun kids' race stretching 1.5 kilometers.
The event is celebrated not just as a competitive run but also as an inclusive gathering where participants can enjoy the camaraderie regardless of their pace or ability. Routes are fully accessible, ensuring that everyone from seasoned athletes to those with disabilities—whether motor, intellectual, sensory, or psychological—can participate together on equal footing using joëlettes (all-terrain wheelchairs).
This year’s mascot duo features a gazelle and a snail, symbolizing the event's philosophy of moving at one's own pace while sharing the same starting line. The race starts and finishes at Université Paris-Saclay station in Gif-sur-Yvette, located on Avenue des Sciences next to École normale supérieure (ENS) Paris-Saclay.
The course winds through eight charming towns—Gif-sur-Yvette, Igny, Orsay, Saclay, Saint-Aubin, Vauhallan, Villiers-le-Bâcle, and Palaiseau—providing a unique blend of urban streetscapes and natural landscapes. Runners will pass by the cool shade of the Saint-Aubin and Favreuse channels, breathe in the fresh air of the Palaiseau state forest, and enjoy open fields along the Massy-Saclay path.
The route showcases some of France's most prestigious scientific institutions such as CentraleSupélec, ENS Paris-Saclay, CEA (French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission), École Polytechnique, and Lumen. The futuristic backdrop is further enhanced by the emerging Grand Paris Express infrastructure; parts of Metro Line 18 are already visible along the route.
Once you’ve crossed the finish line to claim your medal, the celebration continues at the on-site para-sport village where participants can engage in adaptive sports activities or simply relax with fellow runners. For those wishing to explore further, nearby campuses and natural areas offer a perfect setting for an easy post-race stroll amidst modern architecture and serene landscapes.
Join us this November as we celebrate movement, innovation, and community at the Paris-Saclay Running Tour.
The event promises not only a challenging course but also an enriching experience that blends physical achievement with intellectual curiosity and social connection. Don’t miss out on becoming part of this unique celebration in one of Europe’s most dynamic regions for science and technology.