The lake is calling all SUPers around the world to enjoy the GlaGla Race Freestyle 2026 wherever you are.
The GlaGla Race, legendary for bringing together hundreds of rowers in the middle of winter on Lake Annecy, is evolving for 2026. While the official event is taking a ‘gap year’ to prepare for a historic comeback in 2027, its founder Benoit Mouren has officially launched the GlaGla Race FreeStyle 2026: a decentralised, connected and deeply authentic edition.
What is the GlaGla Race? Based on the conviction that rowing in winter offers a unique serenity, the GlaGla Race has become a global phenomenon with more than 800 participants from 20 countries. It is considered the ultimate ‘Cold Dry’ challenge.
The FreeStyle 2026 concept: ‘Pirate Mode’ This year there is no official starting line. There is a global call to action for 17 and 18 January.
‘We want to show that the community is alive, from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, passing through our Alpine lakes,’ says Benoit Mouren.
How to participate in the GlaGla Race FreeStyle 2026
There are three iconic distances:
- 3 km (Short): Discover the magic of winter.
- 6.5 km (Intermediate): The classic GlaGla route.
- 14.5 km (Long): The ultimate endurance test.
Symbolic moment: Saturday 17 January at 10:30 (CET). Hashtag: #GlaGlaFreeStyle.
Registration is free and you can do it 👉 Here
Safety: Thermal protection (dry suit), leash compulsory and never paddle alone in cold water.
GlaGla Race 2027
There is still some time to go, but there is good news regarding the return of this event to Talloires and its wonderful lake. We were there in 2018 and 2019, and we can only say that it is something magical. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in this competition and experience what it is like to put your body to the test in the cold alongside so many riders from all over the world.
Until it returns, you can take part in the Gla Gla Race Freestyle and read a report on the 2019 edition in our magazine Up#25 👇🏼
