Kebaowek, Septembre 4, 2025 – The atmosphere was at its peak Thursday evening in the Kebaowek community, as more than 150 volunteers, partners, and athletes took part in the official launch ceremony of the 2025 Raid International Témiscamingue. For this fourth edition, ancestral Indigenous traditions are being highlighted. The athletes were introduced in a festive setting that celebrated the diversity of their countries of origin through the flag ceremony.
Justin Roy, Director of Economic Development for Kebaowek and spokesperson for the community, delivered an inspiring speech filled with gratitude. “We are proud to welcome you here in our community. Today is a special day for Kebaowek, for Témiscamingue, and for everyone gathered here. We are privileged to open this edition of the 2025 Raid International Témiscamingue. For us, this is not just a sporting event—it is a way to celebrate the land, the water, the spirit of community, and to connect with nature,” he said.
An Opening Marked by Regional Pride
For Claire Bolduc, prefect of the MRC of Témiscamingue, “The Témiscamingue Raid goes beyond sporting competition. It proves that a territory can shine on a global scale by combining boldness, natural beauty, and human solidarity.” The organization emphasizes that the Raid is part of the prestigious Adventure Race World Series (ARWS), ensuring top-level international visibility for Témiscamingue. This year, athletes come from Croatia, Belgium, the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, with many discovering our region for the very first time.
Desjardins Youth Raid and Senior Raid
Starting Friday, the Desjardins Youth Raid will set the tone with 52 teenagers aged 13 to 17 from across Témiscamingue and nearby Ontario. They will experience a unique sporting adventure by being paired with international athletes. “The Youth Raid is the spark that helps shape our citizens of tomorrow into passionate adventurers in every aspect of their lives—whether in self-confidence or in physical activity,” said Chloé Beaulé-Poitras, coordinator of the Raid Témiscamingue.
At the same time, the Senior Raid will see 13 athletes take the start. These two categories highlight that in our region, sport can be experienced differently—with openness, and above all, in a way that is accessible to everyone, regardless of age.
The roadmaps, now in the athletes’ hands, reveal the major stages of the adventure. Here are some highlights of the course, which will also serve as viewing points for the public:
Saturday, September 6
Start in Laniel;
Kipawa River: a spectacular kayaking section through the rapids;
Grande-Chute trails: rope activities and ziplining.
Sunday, September 7
Start from the Drochers Farm field on the Fabre public wharf road, leading into the canoe transition;
Climbing the silo at Carpentier & Sons Farm in Béarn;
Surprise challenge on a stock-car track in Béarn;
Grand team finale at the Lorrainville athletics track.
The Raid International Témiscamingue has received financial support from Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) for three years. The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for CED, shared the following words on this occasion: “International competitions generate remarkable enthusiasm and bring significant economic benefits, both in Quebec and across the country. That is why the Government of Canada is proud to support the Société de développement du Témiscamingue for the fourth edition of the Raid Témiscamingue. I would like to recognize the exemplary work of everyone who contributes to the organization of this event. Thanks to their commitment and perseverance, they allow athletes and visitors, from near and far, to discover the richness and beauty of the Témiscamingue territory.”
Follow the Race
To track the race and find possible cheering points, visit the Web Site or the Facebook and Instagram pages of the Raid International Témiscamingue.
