The foie gras and chocolates of the end-of-year festivities are over! It’s time for the race and the 13th edition of the Prom’Classic to burn off all those dishes we indulged in excessively. Once again, the famous Promenade des Anglais will be packed: nearly 7,000 participants will be at the starting line! Among these runners is Jérémy Trencart, 24, who has taken up running as his new passion for the past two years. A sportsman who runs for pleasure but also trains weekly to improve his times. Even though he belongs to the vast majority of silent “runners”, this native of Annecy speaks up and reveals his ambitions.
Jérémy, this will be your second Prom’Classic, what is your target in terms of “time”?
Last year I clocked a time of 44 minutes. This year, I want to beat that record of course and aim for 42 minutes maximum. It’s nice to start the year with this kind of event. Even if it’s “only” 10 km, it’s more enjoyable and gathers the general public. It’s a convivial event as well, as it’s more accessible compared to a half-marathon or a marathon which are more serious.
What made you want to take up running?
I’ve always run. I practiced judo for a long time, and running helped me maintain my weight class. One day a friend suggested I join him for a race, I really enjoyed the atmosphere, and that’s what made me want to continue afterward. I ran in one race, then another, and started to make it my main sporting activity. What I also really liked is that in each race, you find both amateurs and professionals. It’s exhilarating because we all start on the same line, and you might find yourself running alongside great champions!
Do you wish to become a professional runner in the long term?
Professional, I’m not sure, but I do intend to be a serious and confirmed runner and competitor. I want to beat my records, improve my times, and achieve the best performances. You never know what might happen; everyone secretly dreams of becoming professional, especially since it’s a sport you can do from ages 7 to 77, so I have plenty of time to improve (laughs)!
Is there a race, marathon, or half-marathon that you dream of taking part in?
The New York Marathon. It’s one of the most legendary. I’m aiming for it as a long-term goal, maybe in two or three years. My true dream, or rather project, is to have a roster of races around the world. I want to use this sport to travel and discover the differences from one race to another, experiencing different sensations depending on the atmosphere, the level of the event, and the scenery. This year, I will do everything to participate in the Geneva marathon. It will be a first step.