Bluebird skies greeted the over 600 strong field of SUP racers as they entered Lake Anney’s frigid but glassy waters for the 2020 GlaGla Race, which kicked off the 2020 SUP racing season this past weekend in spectacular fashion. Starboard Dream Team riders flexed their muscle to show that they are in great form coming into the new season. We saw Germany’s Sonni Hoenshchied and USA’s Fiona Wylde break away early into the 15km flatwater course, to lead the way pretty much start to finish. Sonni managed to get a gap over her Starboard teammate to take the overall Elite Women’s title, her second consecutive win at this event, with Fiona finishing in 2nd place just a minute behind Sonni.
In the men’s race, it was, however, a whole different race. Italian team rider Leonard Nika lead the charge at the front of a very high profiled pack. Leo maintained control at the front of the group, setting a high pace early on and leading them into many of the technical buoys turns along the course. 2020 GlaGla Race was however not going to be his year once again, as we saw a very strong T2 come from 5th position and take the inside line around the final turn to make his attack. The New Caledonia rider put in a massive interval to pass Leo and out paddle the lead men’s pack to take the win – all in only the final 800m of the race.
2020 GlaGla Race Live Stream Replay:
Here’s what the Dream Team Riders had to say:
“You don’t get the chance that often to be at the start line with 600 paddlers. The conditions were ideal for the sprint, I had a good start and I was able to lead almost the whole race, pulling away from the others on halfway. I’m happy to be able to win this race back-to-back, but most of all it’s an unreal experience to paddle surrounded by mountains covered with snow and share the love for the sport with so many people!”
~ Sonni Hönscheid
“Well, I didn’t get that wanted first spot even this time! 3 times 2nd at the GlaGla Race which means that I have to come back next year again! One thing is sure that I feel in great form and looking forward to the next one!
I can say that I’m satisfied with my performance and the Starboard Sprint board is looking great! A 2nd place here at the GlaGla race 14km long-distance In very hard conditions is a good way to start 2020 sup race season!
Definitely, I couldn’t been so fast if I didn’t have the possibility to train in the High-Performance Center of Peniche-Portugal!
A special thanks go to @benoitdewidi for organizing this amazing event! What a pleasure to paddle with 637 people in the water and thanks everyone for the great support!”
~ Leonard Nika
“Sharing the water with a few friends is fun, sharing the water with 633 friends in incredible!! Thank you GlaGla race for showing us beautiful Annecy and hosting a very well run event! Congrats to all the racers!”
~ Fiona Wylde
