On Saturday, October 11th, 2025, Château de Carel (Calvados) hosted the very first edition of the Rallye du Coeur Normandie. Passionate drivers, families, children, and volunteers came together to experience a timeless day where a love of cars and solidarity became one.
On this beautiful October morning, participants filled the park with a shared spirit — to share, to give, and to bring joy. Drivers met with the children they were sponsoring — brave little warriors who became their co-drivers for the day. Some proudly and tenderly opened the doors of their vintage or sports cars, welcoming young copilots who, for a few precious hours, could forget hospitals and illness.
Visitors came in large numbers to discover the cars and the event. Young and old alike marveled at the gleaming vehicles, chatted with the teams, and immersed themselves in an atmosphere that was both festive and deeply human — an experience that also helped them better understand the cause supported by Imagine for Margo.
The Concours d’Élégance then turned into an open-air theatre: rare vehicles, exceptional models… each car paraded past admiring spectators. Yet beyond the shine of the bodywork, it was the bond between children and drivers that truly touched hearts.
A Joyful Interlude in Support of Research and Families
In the afternoon, the convoy set off on a 50-kilometer drive through the surrounding countryside. Residents along the route greeted the procession with enthusiasm, proud to see their region hosting such a meaningful charitable event.
Back at the château, the awards ceremony marked one of the highlights of the day — followed by the most anticipated moment: the presentation of a €120,574 check to Imagine for Margo.
The funds raised will help support two major initiatives:
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The PREDCAP project, a national observatory that seeks to better understand genetic predispositions to pediatric cancers and to improve the care of affected children;
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The “Dana Escape” weekend, offering several couples — parents of sick children — a much-needed break for rest, support, and renewal, far from the daily reality of illness.
Committed Voices and Open Hearts
For the participants, taking part in the Rallye du Coeur was, above all, a concrete way to support children and their families.
As David O. expressed it:
“It was an obvious choice to take part. If giving a little happiness can ease their pain, then we’ve already taken a step toward healing.”
For Mathieu F. and Karine C., the commitment carried a deeply personal meaning:
“We’re very moved by the work of Imagine for Margo, which Karine discovered when my stepson Baptiste was diagnosed with leukemia — he’s now in remission.”
These words capture the spirit driving every participant: beyond a shared passion for cars lies a sincere desire to bring support, hope, and joy to children and their families.
A Promising First Edition
At the close of the day, Patricia Blanc, President and Founder of Imagine for Margo, expressed heartfelt thanks:
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the Rallye du Coeur team, to our partners, volunteers, and big-hearted drivers. Your commitment brings smiles to children and hope to families. Together, we are moving closer to our dream — a life without cancer for all children.”
This first Normandy edition was a generous and meaningful encounter.
A huge THANK YOU to the Rallye du Coeur team, to our dedicated partners, volunteers, drivers, and all the donors for their incredible commitment.
The fight goes on.
In 2026, the Rallye du Coeur will continue its journey — writing new chapters of solidarity, always in the service of children and research.