The weekend of January 17th and 18th, 2026, will be etched in the history of the GlaGla Race. For this “Gap Year” edition, the Freestyle concept turned a constraint into an incredible opportunity: the chance to paddle together, all over the world, united by the same passion for cold waters and self-improvement.
232 participants, 6 countries: The world in GlaGla colors While Lake Annecy remained the spiritual heart of the event, the GlaGla Race multiplied this year. We counted 232 participants who took up the challenge in 6 countries: France 🇫🇷, Switzerland 🇨🇭, Italy 🇮🇹, Czech Republic 🇨🇿, United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and, for the first time on such a scale, China 🇨🇳.
The incredible breakthrough of the China Hub 🇨🇳 This year’s big surprise and success comes from the East. Driven by Freddy, the “China Hub” brought together 68 participants across 13 provinces. From the tropical atmosphere of Hainan Island to the cooler waters of Shanghai, Chengdu, or Huangshan, the GlaGla spirit conquered Chinese paddlers.
“Seeing Xiaozhao Fang or Meng Zhang’s group perform on the other side of the world, on such different bodies of water but with the same bib number, is proof that the GlaGla Race has become a global community,” points out organizer Benoit Mouren.
Stories of passion from across Europe In the Old Continent, the commitment was just as intense:
- In Italy: Manuel Brignoli led the way with a memorable 14.5 km session.
- In England: Felicity Hurst braved British conditions to complete her 6.5 km in less than an hour.
- In France: From Melun (with the Melun SUP Aventure group) to Talloires, many of you shared your frozen smiles. Brigitte Cottereau perfectly sums up the general feeling: “What a joy to get the paddle out despite the wind and cold, carried by the energy of the event!”
Record visibility on social media The numbers speak for themselves: on the Alpine Lakes Tour Facebook page, 50% of views came from people who were not following us yet! This connected, highly visual format helped introduce the “magic of winter” to a massive audience. Photos and albums generated over 73% of engagement, proving that your exploits inspire far beyond regular paddlers.
Heading for 2027: Stronger, more united This Freestyle edition was just a springboard. It proved that the “GlaGla Race Friends” community is ready for a 2027 edition that already promises to be historic. We tested new formats, integrated new countries and, above all, maintained the flame that drives us every year in January.
Thanks to all participants, partners, and followers. The results form will be available very soon!