Capgemini competed in the “RoPaRun” Paris to Rotterdam team run
Running to improve the quality of life of patients with cancer
20 March 2008
On May 10th, three Dutch teams of Capgemini staff were at the starting line
in Paris for the “RoPaRun”. The RoPaRun is a non-stop charity team run that goes
from Paris to Rotterdam. By competing, all 259 entries collect money to improve
the quality of life of patients suffering from cancer.
Capgemini competed for the fifth time this year, and for the first time one of the 3 teams consisted of VP level runners from both Capgemini as well as from our customers.
65 kilometers in one weekend
In the RoPaRun, a team of 8 runners bridges a distance of around 530 kilometers, equalling 65 kilometers per person…in one weekend. Rather than running this enormous distance at once which could cause injuries, a subteam of four runners run legs of 2 kilometers for a period of four hours. Then, this subteam gets 4 hours to eat and rest as the other subteam takes over.
RoPaRun history
The first RoPaRun started in 1992 as a bet between a group of friends, who decided
to run from Rotterdam to Paris. Through the years, the RoPaRun has become a yearly
event in which more than 1800 runners and thousands of volunteers take part. From
2004 onwards, the teams start in Paris and finish in the heart of Rotterdam.
The Capgemini train
Although it is an estafette run, a team comprises more than just runners. As the race track is on the public road and navigation is needed, cyclists guide the runners. Moreover, several vans as well as a coach and a little truck is nearby to provide space for rest, sport massage and food. Runners, cyclists, drivers, cooks, masseurs: this year the entire Capgemini team consists of over 70 people.
Capgemini’s goals regarding RoPaRun charity
In the last years, the foundation (Stichting RoPaRun) has donated the collected money to various specialized organizations and hospital departments. Moreover, the foundation bought several holiday cottages with which patients and families can be offered a free holiday.
This year, Capgemini has the goal of collecting at least €30.000 for the RoPaRun foundation through friends, colleagues, customers and partners.
Learn More
For more information on the RoPaRun, please visit Capgemini Netherland’s website. On this website you will also find a video impression of last year.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us via roparun.nl@capgemini.com.
