Interview - Céline CHOPARD-LALLIER
"La Transju' is not just a race, it's a family tradition." - Meet Céline Chopart-Lallier, winner of La Transjurassienne 2022.
Today we meet Céline Chopard Lallier, a passionate cross-country skier from Villers-le-Lac. At the age of 29, Céline juggles her job as a nursery assistant with her love of cross-country skiing, a passion that has driven her since childhood.
"My parents put me on skates quite early, but my first memories go back to elementary school," confides Céline. So it was at an early age that her romance with cross-country skiing began, a love that continues to this day.
When asked what inspires her in her daily work, she talks about her privileged contact with nature.
"I love this sport mainly for its contact with nature, and admiring the beauty of the landscape. I like being alone on the slopes, I feel free," she explains. Céline approaches this new season with a fresh perspective. "Now that I'm looking at performance from a different angle, I'd above all like to continue racing while having fun on skis and enjoying the atmosphere of long-distance racing."
She has also left her mark on the Transju', a competition that has captured her heart since she was very young.
"I've competed once in the classic 50 km and three times in skateboarding," she proudly shares. But it's her single victory that resonates most deeply with her journey, one she emotionally describes as "certainly the most beautiful."
But La Transju' isn't just a race for Céline, it's a family tradition.
"It's a race that's very close to my heart. I've known about the Transju' since I was a little girl, I followed my dad for years before I could line up on it and share it with." This personal connection adds a special dimension, turning the Transju' into a precious family heirloom. Beyond the medals and victories, Céline is looking for something deeper through the Transju'. "It's a race that's really close to my heart," she confides. She aspires to emotion, to sharing and to the continuity of a passion that has always been at the heart of her life.
The Transjurassienne in 2 words: magnificent scenery and popular fervour.
Céline Chopart-Lallier chose 2 words to represent the Transjurassienne. Here's her explanation:
Magnificent scenery: "The Transju' offers magnificent scenery that captivates the eye at every turn. Snow-capped mountains and wild expanses create a breathtaking tableau, making every kilometer a true work of natural art."
Popular fervour: "The vibrant atmosphere and popular fervor that surround the Transju' make it unique. It's much more than a competition; it's a celebration shared by ski enthusiasts from all walks of life."
Céline also shares with us an anecdote during her participation:
"I wanted to test Alexis Jeannerod's magic weapon when he won the Transju' classique - it's hard to eat a whole banana at a feed station! A funny scene that illustrates the influence of champions on the rituals of amateur skiers.
As for her favorite moment, she chooses the start: "you can feel the excitement on the line and when the top is thrown, the pressure gives way to the race and you enter your bubble".
The question is simple, but the answer is eagerly awaited: Céline, will you be taking part in this year's Transju'?
"I'm looking forward to taking part in the Queen's skateboard race. Céline's enthusiasm for the discipline of skateboarding shines through in her response, foreshadowing a memorable participation.
For future participants seeking tipsCéline shares her unique experience:
For preparation: "Training is obviously paramount, so it's best to arrive with a few kilometers in your legs..." she stresses. A solid base is the key to tackling the challenges of the Transju'.
D-Day : "Don't start off too fast, but hook on to the right cars and, above all, refuel well," she recommends wisely. Race strategy and nutrition play a crucial role in the success of this demanding event.
Recovery: With a nod to tradition, Céline humorously adds: "For recovery, a little Comté fondue and off you go again": a delicious way to recharge the batteries after intense effort!
And if you're hesitate to sign upCéline's words may well convince you: "It's the most beautiful race in France, and if you have to choose one, this is the one to do!
We look forward to seeing you on February 8 and 9, 2025 to (re)experience the Transju' spirit!
