Hugo Garon Bouchard, owner of Progression Kite, an F-One + Manera school, is the organizer of a yearly snow kite event on a frozen lake in Quebec, Canada. His event recap below (Please visit the link for the original French version).
“The Lake Saint-Jean Snowkite Crossing 2026 was a success! Much of that success was thanks to our valued sponsors and the dedication of our volunteers. More than 50 participants, 15 volunteers, and just as many smiles made the event truly special.”
“A great kickoff evening on Friday with Microbrasserie du Lac gave everyone a chance to reconnect, meet new people, and talk about the sport at our base camp at the St-Prime marina.
On Saturday, a strong low-pressure system passed to the north, bringing warm southern winds and temperatures above freezing until noon. After that, a powerful cold front changed the conditions. Temperatures dropped and strong gusts swept across Lake Saint-Jean. Winds reaching nearly 30 knots and uncertain visibility prevented us from completing the crossing.
It was still an exceptional day, with perfect conditions for clinics, F-One product demos, and two races held near base camp. We wrapped up Saturday with a delicious dinner at Le Draveur in Roberval.”
“Sunday morning temperatures dropped to -22°C, with a wind chill of -31°C, but the lake crossing still went ahead. Forecasts called for manageable winds between 9 and 14 knots for much of the day. The racers started first, ahead of the recreational participants, despite weakening wind. Around 14 racers—those equipped with large foil kites—managed to launch. Of those, only four completed the 40 km course as the wind continued to decrease.
The recreational crossing did not officially proceed, aside from a few riders who attempted it. Only one recreational participant completed the full course, finishing in over three hours.
Despite the challenges, spirits remained high and the sunshine made the cold much more comfortable. The awards ceremony for the top three finishers and the raffle prize drawings took place late in the afternoon.”
“We would like to thank our official sponsor, F-One, for providing a kite as well as several caps and shirts.
We look forward to seeing you in 2027 for the 8th edition!”