The AFU-Ventoux ride: Promoting men's health through cycling and European collaboration
The Association Française d'Urologie (AFU) has, for the past four years, championed men's health through a unique initiative: the AFU-Ventoux ride. Combining a passion for cycling with a commitment to raising awareness about urological conditions, this event has grown from an idea to a significant gathering, attracting participants from across France and beyond.
From vision to reality
The concept was simple: leverage the appeal of cycling, a sport enjoyed by many urology patients, to promote physical activity and raise funds for research and innovation in urology. The iconic Mont Ventoux, with its challenging slopes and rich cycling history, provided the perfect backdrop. Bernard Hinault, cycling legend, sponsored this event for the fourth consecutive year.
Prof. Arnulf Stenzl (DE) has been an enthusiastic supporter of the AFU-Ventoux ride since its inception. His presence underscores the event's importance within the urological community and the potential for cross-border collaboration.
The French approach: APA and men's health
The AFU has strategically focused its communication on Activité Physique Adaptée (APA), highlighting the benefits of exercise for men's health, particularly in the context of prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and testicular cancer. This approach has resonated with the French public, raising awareness and promoting early detection and prevention.
The event raises funds for the Fonds d'Innovation en Urologie de l'AFU, directly supporting research and medical innovation in urology.
A growing European presence
The AFU-Ventoux ride has attracted participants from across Europe, with representatives from the European Association of Urology (EAU), Germany, Switzerland, and the UK all showing their support.
Looking ahead
The 5th edition of the AFU-Ventoux ride is scheduled for September 2026. Building on its success, the AFU envisions this event becoming a major gathering for European urological societies. By combining sport, scientific exchange, and fundraising, the AFU-Ventoux ride has the potential to serve as a model for promoting men's health and fostering collaboration within the European urological community.