Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, you will undoubtedly find what you are looking for amongst the range of sporting activities available in the La Rochelle area.
With SUAPSE (Service Universitaire des Activités Physiques Sportives et d’Expression – a university service for sports, dance and movement), municipal sporting activities and the many sports clubs and associations, including those dedicated to water sports, you will be spoilt for choice.
Here is some helpful information....
SUAPSE: sport at the heart of the university
With SUAPSE, the University of La Rochelle offers its students more than 40 sporting activities. As an Excelia student you will have access to this service, you simply need to register on the app to obtain your membership card and choose the activity that interests you most from those on offer, such as handball, basketball, climbing, swimming, weight training, sea rowing, dancing, rugby... let your imagination run wild!
During the university academic year, SUAPSE brings students together through the numerous sporting events that it organises. ‘Green Day’, volleyball night, badminton night and the end-of-year cruise are all events in which you can participate, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Municipal sporting activities
Well known for being an ‘active and sporty city’, in 2018, for the second year running, the city of La Rochelle has put in place a veritable sports policy. Fully aware of the benefits and virtues of sport, its aim is for each and every person in La Rochelle to be able to access a wide range of sporting activities according to their age, means and requirements. Encouraging everyone to push themselves to the limit, the city organises many unmissable sporting events. For those passionate about running, don’t miss the Serge Vigot La Rochelle Marathon, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary next year, and the ladies-only Sarabande des filles which takes place in May of each year.
Walking enthusiasts will be charmed by the many walking and hiking trails available in La Rochelle and along its coastline, which are an excellent way to discover the heritage and beauty of this popular tourist destination.
Water sports: clubs and associations
La Rochelle is renowned and internationally recognised for its nautical activities and every year thousands of visitors flock to its boat show Le Grand Pavois (Europe's leading in-water boat show). Located on the Atlantic Ocean, the city and its surroundings benefit not only from beautiful beaches, but also from a mild and temperate climate that makes it an ideal playground for both professionals and amateurs. Whether you are interested in sailing, kitesurfing, stand up paddle boarding, boating or jet skiing, you will find many clubs and associations that offer specific courses or lessons.
For water lovers, you should also know that within Excelia, each year, the Nautical Games association organises an inter-school nautical competition day: an event not to be missed!
