The Double 10 Challenge explained: Vincent Claeskens breaks down Europe’s new SUP endurance test

A bold new challenge is hitting the European SUP scene this Summer: The Double 10 Challenge. This pioneering concept in ultra-long-distance racing will be trialled this Summer, combining two of Europe’s most demanding SUP events into one challenge.

The concept pairs Les 10 Heures de Vassivière, organised by Christophe Bancelin and the Paddle Vassivière Club in France, with Belgium’s The Longest Day, spearheaded by Vincent Claeskens and the Belgian SUP Tour (BST). Together, they create the Double 10 — two epic 10-hour races, one combined leaderboard.

The action kicks off on 5 July at Lac de Vassivière, where paddlers will battle through ten straight hours of racing.
Then, on 30 August, the challenge continues at the Belgian SUP Tour’s Longest Day event on Belgium’s Lac de l’Eau d’Heure – another iconic venue known for testing the very best in SUP endurance.

This new double-header sets a powerful precedent for long-distance stand-up paddling in Europe, offering a fresh goal for endurance athletes across the continent.

TotalSUP caught up with Vincent, a keen endurance racer himself with years of experience paddling in some of Europe’s toughest long-distance events, to dive into the origins and vision behind the Double 10 Challenge.

Image source: Paddle Vassivière Club

Hi Vincent, what inspired the collaboration between “Les 10 Heures de Vassivière” and “The Longest Day” to create The Double 10 challenge?

I’ve been a loyal participant of the ‘Les 10 Heures de Vassivière’ for years. First of all, because I’m a fan of ultra-long-distance (ULD) races, and also because the location, the format, and the unique atmosphere naturally led me to reach out to Christophe Bancelin, the Organiser. Christophe, who’s quite a visionary, immediately embraced the idea of joining forces. That’s how we created this challenge. As for the name, credit goes to Mathieu Astier … it was his idea!

How will the two events remain unique while still feeling connected under the new “Double 10” identity?

We know the ultra long distance (ULD) circuit well. Each event has its own distinct identity and charm. Countries with a strong paddling culture often have at least one or more ULD races, with France leading the way. What struck us is that none of these great events had yet considered teaming up with another race, even though we now have athletes specializing in this demanding discipline. That’s why we launched the Double 10, a European first, and hopefully just the beginning of something much bigger.

Could you tell us how the Double 10 Challenge works?

The Double 10 Challenge brings together two very different 10-hour endurance races:

• At Vassivière, it’s all about going as far as you can in 10 hours. You can race solo, in relay, or in tandem. The winners are the ones (M/F/Team) who complete the most laps over the full race duration.
• The Longest Day, in Belgium, is based on 10 separate ~5.6 km sprints, with a new start every hour. Rankings are based on how many laps you complete and the total time it took. Missing a round won’t disqualify you, but you’ll only be ranked with others who completed the same number of laps.

Anyone competing in both races is automatically entered into the Double 10 Challenge. Titles are awarded for Best Male Solo and Best Female Solo and Best Team, with a full ranking published at the end of The Longest Day.

What kind of paddler is The Double 10 designed for—seasoned ultra-endurance athletes, or those looking to push their limits for the first time?

Honestly, it’s for both. The two events are ULD races, yes, but they’re fundamentally different in style. Vassivière is a pure 10-hour endurance grind, while The Longest Day feels like a series of ten intense sprints with an hourly restart.

The common thread is duration, but the approach and race rhythm couldn’t be more different. So whether you’re experienced or just discovering your limits – there’s something for everyone.

Are there any special incentives, rankings, or awards for athletes who complete both events?

Like any race, it needs to grow. For now, we’re keeping it simple: participants will receive a goodie bag, and the overall Double 10 Winner will take home a rotating trophy. But we’re confident this format will attract other race organisers and brands eager to join and support the challenge… hopefully with some serious prizes in the future. For this first edition, though, it’s all about the pride of being among the pioneers.

Do you see The Double 10 as a one-off concept or the beginning of a broader series of ultra-endurance SUP events in Europe?

As I said earlier, I’m convinced this is just the beginning. I can’t predict exactly who’ll join us next, but I have no doubt the concept will evolve. This is an open invitation for other organisers – we’re ready!

Ultra-endurance SUP races push athletes on every level – physically, mentally, emotionally. From your perspective, what is it that keeps paddlers coming back for more, despite the extreme challenge?

I practice ULD myself, and honestly – I can’t really explain it. Every time I finish a race, I swear it’s the last one… and yet the very next day, I’m already counting down to the next. There’s something inexplicably compelling about it. What really makes it worth coming back, though, is the community. The ULD world is a beautiful one – tight-knit, welcoming, and full of mutual respect. We all know each other, support each other, and push each other forward. It’s a true example of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

And on top of that, I’m lucky enough to be part of a group of friends that we – somewhat grandly – call “The Dream Team.” Every race with them turns into an unforgettable adventure filled with laughs, challenges, and lasting memories.

Image source: SUP 11 City Tour

To find out more and register for the Belgian SUP Tour, visit belgiansuptour.be

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