On Saturday, January 17th at 10:30 AM (CET) / 9:30 AM (GMT), the GlaGla Race spirit will sweep across Europe with the GlaGla Race Freestyle.
For our Pirates, winter isn’t a constraint—it’s the heart of the action. It’s time for the “Crystal Session”: that striking contrast between the biting air and the purity of the water.
The Conditions: A European challenge below 6°C Thanks to real-time data from our partners and friends (including Bateau24 for Swiss waters and UK coastal monitors), we know the challenge will be significant:
- Lake Annecy: Currently at 5.5°C (expected between 4 and 6°C on race day).
- Swiss Lakes (Geneva, Neuchâtel, Zurich): Temperatures are currently between 5°C and 8°C.
- United Kingdom: Inland waters (like the Lake District) are particularly cold, currently hovering between 3°C and 5°C. On the coast, temperatures range from 7°C in the North Sea to 10°C in Cornwall.
- Elsewhere in Europe: From the English Channel (7°C) to the Mediterranean (13°C), dry cold and wind remain your primary rivals.
Wherever you paddle, the simultaneous start at 10:30 AM (CET) / 9:30 AM (GMT) requires flawless preparation.
Gear: Your armor against the elements The Paddle Shop (our official technical partner) and Red Paddle have selected the best gear to defy these temperatures:
- The Drysuit: Available at The Paddle Shop, it’s the ultimate weapon to stay dry and regulate your body temperature.
- The Thermal Cocoon: Red Paddle Pro Change EVO robes are essential to keep your muscles warm on the dock before the 10:30 AM start and immediately after your session.
Safety: Respect the “Mirror” At 5.5°C, the water is unforgiving. Your Leash, PFD, and a survival blanket in your waterproof pouch are mandatory.
🚩 Safety Corner: Tides and Currents (For Coastal Pirates)
If you are taking part in the GlaGla Race Freestyle at sea or in an estuary, water temperature isn’t your only challenge:
- Check the Tides: On January 17th, check the high and low tide times. Don’t let an ebbing tide sweep you away from the shore.
- Offshore Winds: This is the ultimate trap. A wind blowing from land to sea can make returning to shore impossible, even if the water looks flat. If the wind is offshore, stay very close to the coastline.
- Currents: Never exhaust yourself fighting a head-on current. Plan your route to paddle with the tide or in sheltered areas.
- Shore Contact: Use a tracking app or tell someone on shore exactly when you expect to be back. At sea, every minute counts.
See you on January 17th at 10:30 AM (CET) / 9:30 AM (GMT) for the big Freestyle start! And if you haven’t already, sign up now!