The team behind the Serre-Ponçon Swim Challenge
Our Story
The Serre-Ponçon Swim Challenge was born from a simple but powerful idea: to make it possible and safe for passionate open-water swimmers to cross one of Europe’s most spectacular alpine lakes.
For years, locals and visitors alike have dreamed of swimming the full 20km length of the Lac de Serre-Ponçon.
With its turquoise waters, mountain backdrop, and peaceful wilderness, it’s a place that inspires adventure and connection with nature.
In 2025, that dream began to take shape.
A small group of swimmers, outdoor professionals, and local organisers came together to create a non-profit association dedicated to making this unique event a reality — in a way that’s responsible, safe, and sustainable.
The result? An event built on passion, professionalism, and purpose - a chance to experience Serre-Ponçon in a completely new way.
Our Mission
Our aim is to:
• Promote open-water swimming as an accessible, environmentally respectful mountain sport.
• Raise awareness about water conservation and the unique Alpine ecosystems of SerrePonçon.
• Foster community connections between swimmers, locals, and nature enthusiasts.
• Create a model of sustainable outdoor events for the region.
We believe sport can bring people together, highlight the beauty of our environment, and inspire collective care for it.
Who We Are
The Serre-Ponçon Swim Challenge Association is run by volunteers who share a love of the lake and the outdoors.
The Core Team
Our team brings together complementary experience in adventure tourism, safety management, healthcare, and sports coaching.
Sally Guillaume
President
Founder of Undiscovered Mountains, Sally brings over 20 years of experience organising adventure trips in the Southern French Alps. Passionate about sustainability, she is the driving force behind the event’s creation and organisation
Philippe Halluin
Secretary
Hospital director and open-water enthusiast, Chloé brings structure, precision, and attention to detail to the organisation with a focus on participant welfare and environmental impact.
Chloé Schmitt
Treasurer
Owner of a mountain lodge and passionate long-distance swimmer, Philippe oversees financial management and local logistics coordination.
Johan Brochier
Member
Swim coach and open-water athlete, Johan contributes to training structure, route planning, and swimmer guidance.
Alex Dupont
Member
Professional lifeguard and rescue expert and open water swimming athlete. Alex has swum the 20km, 30km and 40km on the lake as well as swimming the English Channel. Alex coordinates safety protocols and supervises motorboat operations during the event.
Together, they form the backbone of the event — supported by dozens of local volunteers, guides, and partners who share their passion for Serre-Ponçon.
Our Values
💧 Safety first — Every decision, from route design to equipment, is made with participant safety as the top priority.
🌿 Sustainability — Minimal-impact logistics, eco-responsible materials, and support for local environmental initiatives.
🏊 Inclusion — Welcoming swimmers from diverse backgrounds and abilities, fostering a sense of unity and respect.
🤝 Community — Building connections between swimmers, volunteers, partners, and the people of Serre-Ponçon.
Get to Know Us
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The Serre-Ponçon Swim Challenge is built by people who love this lake and who believe in doing things with purpose, care, and heart.