Montpellier, France – A group of six university students in Montpellier are combining their passion for animals with a burgeoning sport to launch a unique fundraising and awareness initiative. Dubbed “L’Arche Canine” (The Canine Ark), the project centers around a solidarity canicross event aimed at supporting local animal shelters and promoting responsible pet adoption.
Canicross, a rapidly growing sport, involves running with a dog attached to the runner via a specialized harness and bungee cord. The students, all studying management at the University of Montpellier, initially conceived the idea as a course project but quickly realized its potential to build a tangible difference in the lives of animals in need. Their goal is to raise funds and visibility for local shelters, and to challenge perceptions about shelter dogs.
“It started as a class assignment, but we weren’t sure what to choose,” explained Maëlys, one of the students involved. “Then I discovered videos of canicross and the group immediately connected with it. We love dogs, and it seemed like a great way to combine our interests with a great cause.”
The team – Yuiko, Manon, Anaïs, Sofiia, Maëlys, and Lou – officially formed L’Arche Canine, taking inspiration from Noah’s Ark as a symbol of refuge and care. They quickly moved beyond the academic exercise, forging partnerships with local animal welfare organizations.
The students have partnered with the local Société Protectrice des Animaux (SPA – animal welfare society) and are receiving support from the X-Trem 34 running association, which will provide equipment for participants who may need it. Patoune Douce, another local organization, is also lending its support. The SPA will be actively involved in the event, with two to four dogs from the shelter participating in the canicross to showcase their personalities and potential to prospective adopters. “It’s not the same seeing them in a cage and seeing them run, seeing their character,” emphasized Anaïs.
The inaugural canicross event will take place on Saturday, March 7th, at the Parc des Oliviers in Palavas-les-Flots. Organizers chose the location because a beach location was not permitted due to regulations, but the park offers a suitable terrain and access to water for the dogs. The 1.2-kilometer course will begin at 9:30 AM and conclude by 12:00 PM. The entry fee is €5, and participation is limited to 50 runners for safety and logistical reasons. Decathlon and Hérault Sport are providing equipment support.
Strict guidelines will be in place for participants, including a minimum age of 11 for runners and 18 months for dogs, proof of up-to-date vaccinations, and the utilize of appropriate canicross harnesses. A veterinarian and security personnel will be present throughout the event. Spectators are welcome to observe the race and meet the dogs from the SPA.
Beyond the run itself, the event will feature information booths from canine educators and animal welfare organizations, promoting responsible pet ownership. A raffle with over 40 prizes valued at more than €2,000 will be held, along with a fundraising campaign that has already generated approximately €400. Proceeds will be donated to local animal associations and used to purchase food for shelters and animals belonging to people experiencing homelessness, inspired by the work of Gamelle Pleine in Montpellier, which provides food for the pets of unhoused individuals.
The students’ commitment stems from personal experiences and a growing awareness of the challenges faced by abandoned animals. “The last time we visited the shelter, we saw abandoned animals that shocked us. People take it too lightly. A dog feels everything,” shared Maëlys. Yuiko recounted how adopting a dachshund with her mother changed her perspective, while Anaïs spoke of the deep bond she shares with her adopted dog.
Looking ahead, the students envision establishing the canicross as an annual event, and expanding their efforts to include food drives, visits to nursing homes with therapy dogs, and potentially even establishing their own animal shelter. “If, thanks to us, just one dog finds a family, it will be enormous,” concluded Anaïs.
Registration for the canicross is now open. Interested participants can reserve their spot and find more information on the event website.
The students’ initiative highlights a growing trend of combining athletic pursuits with charitable causes, offering a unique and engaging way to support animal welfare in the Montpellier region. This event demonstrates the power of student-led initiatives to address community needs and promote responsible pet ownership.
What are your thoughts on combining sports with charitable fundraising? Share your comments below and assist spread the word about L’Arche Canine!
