Sine Qua Non Run: the race to "trample on gender-based violence and sexual violence"

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The Editor

© Sine Qua Non

Every year since 2018, the Sine Qua Non association has been organizing a fun run in Paris to shed light on the gender-based and sexual violence (GBSV) that exists in our society. In 2024, the run will take place on Saturday, March 9th, the day after International Women's Day.

"Using sports as an empowerment tool" - that's the vision of the association Sine Qua Non. This Saturday, March 9, the group is hosting the popular Sine Qua Non Run. The 6 or 10 kilometer course is all about bringing people together to support women's right to participate in sports freely, in any way they choose. According to Lucile Woodward, sports coach and race godmother, the goal is to empower women and men to exercise where, when, and how they want. Join us at the tip square in Pantin (93) from 6pm for a scenic run along the canal. Let's come together and celebrate the joy of movement!


« Reclaiming the streets through sports »

The Sine Qua Non association was born in 2017, shortly before the start of the #MeToo movement. At the time, Mathilde Castres, its founder, was a victim of violence in her professional environment and managed to overcome the trauma through running. Sport is a " vehicle for positive, unifying messages ", and allows to " reconnect through dialogue ", asserts Tiphaine Poulain, co-founder. That's why the two women had the idea of creating an annual race to mobilize, raise awareness, and help women find their place.

It was only later, when they encountered many women tired of being interrupted in their sporting activities by inappropriate remarks, looks, and gestures, that Lucile Woodward, a sports coach at the time, proposed a new activity. The "Sine Que Non Squad" was born and quickly became a safe space where women could practice sports without fear of harassment.

In Bordeaux, right in the heart of the "forbidden zone for women", to "reclaim the streets".


Running in complete inclusivity  

Events under the sign of sisterhood, but the association and its members deeply value their participation in mixed-gender events. When asked about this, Lucile and Tiphaine respond together: according to them, "the reappropriation of public space for women won't happen only among women. The majority of men we meet during these runs share this spirit of kindness.

It's all about happiness and togetherness. It's a matter of public safety that concerns all genders. In 2018, the Sine Qua Non Run had 25% men, against 40% in 2023. Through its missions and the discourse of its many ambassadors, Sine Qua Non hopes to ultimately marginalize the feeling of insecurity among women who participate in sports. Everyone can get involved with the association to make a difference, in their own way. "We're always looking for more people, and in several cities. Rain or shine, sports practice never takes a break," jokes Tiphaine. Registrations for Saturday's race are still open, and thanks to technological prowess, it's possible to follow the challenge remotely, connected to the Strava app. On your marks, get set... Go!

Sine Qua Non Run
 On Saturday, March 9th
 Starting point - Place de la pointe, Pantin (93100) 
 Two routes: 6km and 10km 
 More info
Reservation
Strava challenge

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