The fourth edition of The Calvi to Monaco Water Bike Challenge race returns to the Mediterranean sea this September 6th and 7th. The challenge organised by The Princess Charlene Foundation will include five teams of four athletes, who will cross the 180 km on open sea, in the fastest time possible, between Calvi, in Corsica, and the Principality.
This exciting race on water bikes demands tremendous stamina, both mental and physical. For around 24 hours, including through the night, the teams consisting of top athletes, celebrities and Monaco locals will cycle in a relay from the Quai d’Honneur in the port of Calvi to the finish line at Larvotto beach next to the Académie de la Mer.
Gareth Wittstock, General Secretary of the Princess Charlene Foundation and brother of Princess Charlene, shares: “Many years ago, we started throwing around the daunting idea of organizing a fundraising sporting event like no other: the crossing of the Mediterranean on water bikes. This evolved into the Riviera Water Bike Challenge, which took place in 2017 between Nice and Monaco and in 2018 in Monaco. In 2020, the global pandemic prevented us from organizing the Riviera Water Bike Challenge, which brings together a large number of participants. At that point, the original idea of the crossing resurfaced and became Calvi-Monaco.”
The Mediterranean crossing is organised by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, and aims to raise awareness about learning to swim, drowning prevention and sporting values.
How to watch the action
The Calvi-Monaco Crossing race will be live in real time (details to follow).
Join on September 6th on the port of Calvi Corsica to see the departure starting from 11am. (Schedule may change depending on weather conditions).
Join on September 7th on the Larvotto Beach to welcome the teams on their arrival from 10am to celebrate their arrival. (Schedule may change depending on weather conditions).
Princess Charlene Foundation
The Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, established on December 14, 2012, primarily aims to save lives by combating drowning. Its missions include raising public awareness about water dangers, teaching children preventive measures, and providing swimming lessons. The foundation implements the “Learn to Swim” and “Water Safety” programs globally.
Additionally, the foundation promotes sports values such as discipline, self-respect, respect for others, effort, and teamwork. Through its “Sport & Education” program, it uses sports activities to support the well-being and development of children.
