Maria Diamantis, LJI journalist
On the evening of October 18, the town of Rosemère will host its own edition of La Grande marche, a 5 km community walk that is part of the larger Grand défi Pierre Lavoie. This event, starting at 7:00 PM at Alpha School, brings people of all ages together in a celebration of health, fitness, and civic engagement.
The Grande marche is a vital component of the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie, a province-wide movement that promotes physical activity and healthy living. Organized in over 100 cities across Quebec, this initiative aims to encourage the population to adopt healthier habits, with an emphasis on physical activity as a foundation for long-term health.
Rosemère’s participation holds special significance, reflecting the town’s commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens. By offering free registration, Rosemère hopes to remove barriers to participation and foster an inclusive environment where residents can experience the health benefits of physical activity. The event is supported by the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec, underscoring the role of medical professionals in advocating for public health.
The walk kicks off with a group warm-up at 6:45 PM, providing a space for participants to engage socially while preparing physically. The atmosphere is expected to be festive, with families, friends, and neighbors coming together to share in this simple yet powerful activity: walking. Unlike competitive races, La Grande marche focuses on accessibility, ensuring that individuals of all fitness levels feel welcome.
This event goes beyond promoting physical health—it also highlights the importance of civic participation. Rosemère’s involvement in the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie reinforces the idea that community activities can have a lasting impact. By encouraging residents to come together for a common cause, the walk strengthens the bonds between individuals while simultaneously promoting a healthier society.
Pierre Lavoie, a Quebec-based endurance athlete and health advocate, founded the Grand défi with the vision of improving Quebecers’ health and creating a culture where wellness is the norm. The message of La Grande marche is clear: small actions, like a community walk, can lead to profound changes in personal and collective health.
As Rosemère gears up for this year’s walk, the town is demonstrating how local initiatives can contribute to a larger social movement. Health and community spirit go hand in hand, and events like La Grande marche illustrate the importance of collaboration in achieving long-term public health goals.