On May 20, 370 children from 15 classes of the Tonnay–Boutonne, Genouille and Archingeay schools gathered to perform the “school cross” (mowing, cleaning, barrier-building) on the campsite that was prepared by the municipal staff. Josick Ambroise, the director of the elementary school, said that this event was “a very positive sign of a return of normal” for the parents and teachers who came to support their children and encourage them.
All children, whether they are athletes or not, can participate in this sporting event. They must train for several weeks to make a sustained effort. Children can run distances of up to 1,200m (CE2) or 750m (CP, CE1) depending on their age. The first to arrive receive no reward. All children were given a snack. Teachers from different school sectors get together at this time, which allows for newcomers to the educational community. Some small rural schools also see regular changes in their teachers.
