Entries for the 44th LIDL Balaton Crossing sold out in record time this year, highlighting the event’s growing popularity. Every year, more and more people take on the challenge of one of Hungary’s biggest recreational sporting events. On 18 July, participants can either swim the iconic 5.2-kilometre crossing or, in the Yettel Balaton SUP Crossing category, paddle across the lake on a stand-up paddleboard. According to Zsuzsanna Jakabos, the growing popularity of events like the Balaton Crossing lies in their unique combination of personal challenge and shared experience. “Being active is one of the best things you can do for your body. Exercise boosts feel-good hormones, reduces stress, and builds self-confidence. And when you get to experience all that as part of a community, it’s even more rewarding.”
The Olympian believes that success isn’t about being perfect. It’s more about preparing properly and knowing your own limits. “My most important piece of advice is simple: don’t forget to enjoy yourself. Very often, the way you experience the journey is even more important than reaching the finish line.” First-timers shouldn’t be intimidated by the Balaton Crossing, whether they're swimming or paddling across on a SUP. According to Zsuzsanna Jakabos, most beginners tend to make the same mistakes. “Many people underestimate the heat, forget to stay properly hydrated, or don’t realise how different it is to navigate in open water compared to a swimming pool. Another common mistake is starting out too fast. It's much better to set off at a steady, comfortable pace and only pick up the speed later. That way, you're much more likely to have enough energy to make it to the finish.”
She truly discovered the power of crowd support during the COVID pandemic
Throughout her swimming career, she has experienced countless times just how much strength and motivation the support of spectators can provide. “I used to take it for granted that the fans would always be there. Then, during COVID, I swam an Olympic final in a completely empty arena. I wouldn’t wish that feeling on anyone. It’s a completely different experience when thousands of people are cheering you on – it's like an invisible source of energy. Even now, nearly twenty years later, it still gives me goosebumps when I think about it.”
Once again this year, spectators won’t just be watching the Balaton Crossing – they'll be part of it too. At the Yettel Reels Workshop, they can record personalised video messages, which are then enhanced with eye-catching AI effects to create unique, shareable keepsakes in just a few seconds. And the messages don’t stop on social media. Thanks to Yettel's newly upgraded Cheer Boat, both written and video messages will be delivered to swimmers and SUP participants out on the lake during the event, giving them an extra boost of encouragement along the way.
Why the Olympian fell in love with SUP
Although Zsuzsanna Jakabos has yet to take part in the Balaton Crossing, she has already enjoyed stand-up paddleboarding in several spectacular locations. “I first tried stand-up paddleboarding in Hawaii in 2013, and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I find it incredibly relaxing. I love being so close to nature, and I like that I can paddle hard when I feel like it, but I can also stop at any time and simply take in the moment.” According to Jakabos, the Yettel Balaton SUP Crossing is the perfect alternative for those who don’t feel ready to swim across the lake but still want to be part of one of Lake Balaton’s most iconic summer events. It’s no surprise that entries for the SUP category sell out quickly year after year.
As a key partner of the 44th LIDL Balaton Crossing, Yettel is once again offering a range of services for both participants and spectators. Visitors can create eye-catching personalised videos on site using the AI-powered Reels Workshop, charging stations will be available at the start area, and SUP participants can make use of the SUP-PORT Station, where they can quickly and easily inflate their boards. At the finish area, the Yettel Chill Zone offers participants a comfortable place to relax, complete with sun loungers. Mobile stations are also available, allowing swimmers and SUP participants to share their achievement with family and friends straight away. The mobile operator is developing its network around Lake Balaton throughout the year, and during the race, and it will provide a high-speed mobile network also during the race to ensure that everyone can reach their loved ones as soon as they have completed the distance.