Two athletes, one message: believe in your abilities
The November 2024 sun saw the rise of two stars at the Eclosia Trail: Davidson Toussaint and Shirley Larose. After meeting these champions—respectively the male and female winners—you can't help but feel inspired to lace up your sneakers and push your own limits.
At just 26 years old, Davidson Toussaint, a Malagasy worker at the Côte d’Or farm, secured a well-deserved first trophy for his team by completing the race in 28 minutes and 45 seconds. But behind this record lies a story of humility and dreams come true.
"Back home in Tana, I used to walk to work, always thinking that one day I’d love to run a trail," recalls Davidson, smiling. In Mauritius, he seizes every opportunity to train after his work shifts.
Supported by his loved ones and colleagues, he doesn’t hide his pride. "I was confident I would win," he says. He is quick to express his gratitude to those who encouraged him: his wife, who supports him from Madagascar, as well as his colleagues and the event organizers. "Without them, this success wouldn’t have been possible." Davidson has already set his goal for the 2025 edition: "This year, I fully intend to keep my title."
On the women’s side, Shirley Larose, 46, a Supervisor at KFC, conquered the course in 40 minutes and 24 seconds. A former judoka, she transitioned to running thanks to her children, initially running alongside them.
Step by step, Shirley embraced the challenge. She was drawn to trail running for its varied and demanding routes. "I started with short distances, then gradually increased until I reached 21 kilometers." For her, it's all about pushing past her own limits. "I love that feeling of exhaustion after a race."
For Shirley, trail running is much more than just a sport. "It brings an immense sense of satisfaction." During tough moments, she relies on her inner voice, reminding her: Come on, one step at a time.