Bernard Martineau

Bernard Martineau will carry the Olympic Torch. This is his story:

Bernard is a model of voluntary commitment to sport through his involvement in the Tour de Vendée cycle race, an adventure that has lasted for over 50 years. This race, launched in 1972 by his father, became a professional competition in 1980. Bernard occupied the position of chairman of its organising committee for 36 years, from 1981 to 2017.

As a consummate father, he has passed on his passion to his children, who have accompanied him in this adventure. His dedication has made a major contribution to the development of cycling in the Vendée and to the promotion of voluntary work. Each edition of this event brings together almost one thousand volunteers, which pays witness to the positive impact his commitment has had on the community.