The World Cup effect can be felt everywhere in France. A group of players and former rugby players from Canada decided to spend a few days on vacation at the magnificent Château de Mazelières in Espiens. This castle is located towards Montagnac-sur-Auvignon, a magnificent village known in the world for the exploits of the oval of the Tolot family.

These Canadians had requested the management of the castle as part of the hospitality program, cultural, sporting and festive activities. The choice of location would involve, for their greatest pleasure, the actors of local, cultural and sporting life.

Game against the “Charlots” and 3rd half at Espiens

As soon as they arrived in Espiens, the group made their way to Agen and the Armandie Stadium, where a France-Canada match was being played during the 1991 World Cup. A visit to the changing rooms to put on the outfit and put on the crampons, because on the pitch of Jean-Jacques Crenca they were waiting for players from the “Charlot Rugby Club of Agen”, a historic club of former Suavist players.

Before kick-off, a face-off in the middle of the field in the blazing sun. The “Charlot” responded to the very short motivational call from the “Canucks” with a Marseillaise. The timing was tight. The “Auvignon Men’s Choir” welcomed the entire group of rugby players in the Montagnac church for a welcome concert for the Canadian players.

The celebrations then took place in the village hall with banquets and a big screen on which the France – All Blacks game could be watched. Atmosphere guaranteed by the quality of the entertainment on offer, the conviviality of the evening enlivened by an opening game of the anthology. And “all in good spirits,” says Patrick Solé, on behalf of “Charlot”, delighted at the invitation to take part. It was a very good idea that these gentlemen chose our region as their place of residence.