St Mich'trail Armored Backyard 2026

We certainly don’t wish it on you, but 15 loops of 5.25 km… you might really feel them 😅.

The St Mich'trail Armored Backyard in Saint-Michel-sur-Orge is the perfect combo of history and performance: champions of ancient times meeting champions of modern times—this is happening in the Essonne 📍. Remember to polish your armor well—knights are the only ones allowed on the start line. Luckily for you, the sword isn’t required as part of the costume; you still have to be able to run 😂. So if you’re free the last week of October, let us introduce you to the unique concept of the St Mich'trail Armored Backyard.

This format takes the classic backyard concept and adds a fun twist: wearing mandatory armor ⚔️. Yes, yes, you read that right: some organizers impose a color code, recommend (or not) the use of poles, set time cutoffs... whereas here the number ONE rule ☝️ is to show up dressed to the nines, as well put together as Lancelot or Perceval. Pretty original, right? You run in circles until you can’t take it anymore 🏃, but always wearing that famous weighted vest that will make you want to erase the medieval era from your memory 😬. For the bravest knights, a maximum of 15 loops is possible, with a decreasing time limit going from 1 hour for the first 5 loops down to 30 minutes for the last 5 🏁. In short, your legs are giving out, your armor’s weight doesn’t budge, and on top of that we cut down the time allowed to complete each lap. At that point it’s almost cruelty... 😈 Fortunately, the aid station in the start village will be stocked with sweet, savory, and hot and cold drinks, to push you to head back out faster than your own shadow 💨. A real challenge that’s as much in the mind as in the legs (and this time, in the chest too 💪).

But if the idea of fueling up alone isn’t enough to get you to take on a race like this, let us introduce you to the area 🤓. Saint-Michel-sur-Orge isn’t Mont-Saint-Michel, but it has (almost) nothing to envy. You trade old stones and the waters of the English Channel for the Parc de Lormoy and the peaceful waters of Lac du Carouge. Two cities, two vibes, but that medieval spirit still intact 🤪. Essonne is a little green corner of Île-de-France, just a stone’s throw from the big city: paths, quiet spots, and room left for nature that will make you feel like you’re in the Périgord 🦆. For tastings, head to the town center of Arpajon and discover the local specialties: Méréville watercress, bright red Étampes pumpkin and Milly-la-Forêt peppermint are among the most famous. What’s more, no need to overthink the post-meal stroll: you can walk along the Orge to finish chilling, armor to the side and sword in its sheath 🤘.

So, knight, ready to charge? 🐎