In a thrilling display of endurance and teamwork, Team Lionheart emerged victorious at the 2024 Water Bike Challenge, hosted by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. The event, which saw five teams racing across 180 kilometres of open water from Calvi, Corsica to Monaco, concluded on the shores of Larvotto Beach, where HSH Princess Charlene and HSH Prince Albert welcomed the winners and celebrated all participants.

The race kicked off on the morning of Friday, September 6th, with Prince Albert and Princess Charlene waving off the competitors from Calvi’s historic marina. The five teams, composed of professional athletes and notable figures, took turns in a 24-hour relay as they navigated their way toward Monaco.

Team Lionheart took an early lead, but Team Serenity soon surged ahead, closely followed by Team Rock to Rock. These three teams battled fiercely for the top spot throughout the race, with only a few meters separating them at several points. Meanwhile, Team U17 and Team Ferrari, initially trailing, began closing the gap by the halfway mark, making it anyone’s race as night fell.

By dawn on Saturday, September 7th, Monaco’s coastline came into view, and Team Lionheart was back in the lead. The team, featuring Olympic gold medalist mountain biker Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, former pro cyclist Gustav Larsson, cyclist Harvey Bird, and environmental activist Brandon Green, made a final push for victory. It was Green who ultimately powered the team to the finish line on Larvotto Beach, where they were greeted by the Princely couple and a cheering crowd.

Team Rock to Rock finished in a strong second place, with Team Serenity close behind in third. Team Ferrari and Team U17 rounded out the fourth and fifth positions, respectively.

The challenge, more than just a race, aimed to raise awareness and funds for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation’s initiatives, which focus on water safety, education, and sport. The event saw generous support, with nearly 290,000 euros donated by Sunday afternoon, and more contributions expected.

For those who wish to support the foundation or any of the competing teams, donations can be made via the foundation’s website.

Images courtesy of : Manuel Vitali / Monaco Communications Department Eric Mathon / Prince’s Palace