Back on the Adriatic: Lignano SUP Race Makes Its Comeback

The Lignano SUP Race is back, and with it, one of Europe’s most iconic stand up paddling events. First launched 12 years ago by a small but passionate crew, the race quickly grew into the continent’s biggest SUP gathering, attracting over 300 athletes from around the world. More than just competition, it became a festival, a mix of sport, fun, and community on the shores of the Adriatic. After Covid put the event on hold and the original organizers stepped back, it was thanks to Romina and Alberto, co-founders of The Wild SUP, that the race found new life. Their vision: to restore its former glory and make Lignano once again a highlight of the Italian SUP scene.

Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role in organizing the Lignano SUP Race?

Hello, I’m Romina, 35 years old, president and co-founder of The Wild SUP association born in 2020. I started paddling in 2016 and literally fell in love with this sport, but I also practice swimming, running, trail running, gym and cycling since years… I consider myself a hybrid athlete, as people like to call me, lol.

How did the Lignano SUP Race start, and how has it evolved over the past editions?

The Lignano SUP Race was born 12 years ago from a passionate local SUP crew that created the biggest SUP event in Europe. In its best years, the race attracted more than 300 participants from all over the world, with many racing on 12’6’’ boards since it was the favorite size of that time. But Lignano SUP Race was never just a race, it was also a big gathering and party for everyone. Unfortunately, after Covid, nobody wanted to reorganize the event, and the historical crew disbanded. That’s when Alberto and I decided to revive the Lignano SUP Race… and here we are!

You offer several race formats: Technical Race, Long Distance, Fun Race, Big SUP Team… Could you explain the differences between them?

The two top races are the Technical Race and the Long Distance Race, both valid for ICF qualifications. The Technical Race is a 1 km time trial with heats around four buoys, the first round clockwise and the second counterclockwise. The Long Distance Race takes place on a 3 km loop, repeated four times for a total of 12 km, all clockwise. The Fun Race and Big SUP Team are designed for everyone who just wants to participate, have fun, and enjoy time on the water with friends.

What are your goals for the future growth of the Lignano SUP Race?

For sure, our goal is to restore the Lignano SUP Race to its former glory and make the event one of the most beautiful and important SUP gatherings in Italy.

Where does the race take place, and what are the typical conditions participants can expect?

The Lignano SUP Race takes place on the Adriatic Sea, so of course we hope to be lucky with weather conditions. Typically, the wind blows from the east-southeast in the morning and from the south-southwest in the afternoon, but waves are never as big as the ocean, lol.

How can people register, and could you share some practical information for participants?

People can register on our website www.thewildsup.com using the Keepsporting platform, or they can email us with any questions at info@thewildsup.com.

How can someone join The Wild SUP ASD, and what makes the club unique compared to other SUP clubs?

Everybody can follow us on Instagram @thewildsup or on Facebook @The Wild SUP. In my opinion, our club is neither better nor worse than others we simply love stand up paddling and enjoy sharing our time with people who want to race or just have fun with the activities.