An unusual but demanding competition
Organizing a race in the middle of winter, on a frozen lake, is a challenge that few sporting events can match. Every year, the GlaGla Race attracts up to 850 participants, a mix of amateurs and professionals from all over Europe. But behind this success lies a complex logistical reality: a heated tent, safety devices adapted to winter conditions, and meticulous organization by a handful of volunteers.
The fatigue of a small team
After ten editions, the organizers of the GlaGla Race, led by Benoît Mouren, feel the need to take a step back. "What we do is anything but business," he explains. The event relies on a small, passionate team, but the growing scale of the race has taken its toll on their energy. With six to eight races organized each year as part of the Alpine Lakes Tour, of which the GlaGla is the highlight, the workload has become unsustainable.
Insufficient financial support
Despite its prestige, the GlaGla Race has to deal with a limited budget. Paddle's historical sponsors, often small structures, do not have the necessary means to support an event of this scale. Currently, partners only cover 20% of costs, leaving the organization in a fragile situation. The idea of hiring professionals to reinforce the team remains, for the moment, out of reach.
Consideration for a return in 2026
The organizers hope to use this break to rethink their business model. "We'll have to think of ways to lighten logistics and find solid partners," confides Benoît Mouren. The 11th edition, scheduled for January 17, 2026, promises to be a fresh start. In the meantime, paddleboard enthusiasts will have to wait and see, hoping for a return that lives up to expectations.
The growth of the race has also brought its share of criticism. On social networking sites, some people have complained about errors in the rankings and high entry fees. Benoît Mouren regrets this misunderstanding of the non-profit nature of the GlaGla Race. This break will also be an opportunity to recall the founding values of the event: conviviality, sharing and sporting challenge.
