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Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella cheer on mom Princess Charlene in intense water bike race

The South African Olympic swimmer had her game face on as she participated in a grueling challenge


Robert Peterpaul
Weekend Editor
UPDATED SEPTEMBER 13, 2020 10:19 AM EDT

 Princess Charlene  had the support of her royal family as she participated in The Crossing Calvi Monaco Water Bike Challenge on September 12 and 13. The intense event, which benefited her foundation, called upon two teams of four world-renowned athletes to alternate cycling 180km (over 111 miles) from Calvi, Corsica to Monaco. Charlene whipped on a wetsuit and partook in the sport, which was not for the faint of heart. Scroll to see all the best photos of her competing as her adorable family cheers her on!

prince jacques princess gabriella© GettyImages

Fantastic four

Princess Charlene had the support of her husband Prince Albert II of Monaco and their kids, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, at the challenge. On kick-off day, they posed for photos ahead of her time in hot seat.

prince jacques princess gabriella© GettyImages

Twinning

As usual, Charlene’s five-year-old twins Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella stole the show with their adorable presence. Jacques looked every bit the seafarer in a blue and white ensemble, which featured a “J” cap. Meanwhile, Gabriella worked the cameras in her colorful sundress.

princess charlene sports© GettyImages

Just keep pedaling

Charlene expertly navigated choppy waters on her bike. The aim of this new sporting challenge was to ride a water bike from Calvi to Monaco in the shortest time possible to raise awareness of the various programs run by the Charlene’s Foundation. These will include: “Learn to Swim” and “Water Safety.”

prince albert kids© GettyImages

Wavin\'

Her family cheered her on from the dock, waving as mom came in.

princess charlene water bike© GettyImages

Final push

Charlene had a smile on her face as she saw the familiar crowd. She and her mates wore the signature colors of Monaco, of course: red and white. Her team was called “Serenity.”

princess charlene© GettyImages

Just breathe

The edurance required for the challenge was clear as Charlene kneeled to the ground and took a moment to catch her breath after competing.

princess charlene kids© GettyImages

Plug your ears!

Over the two day event, the royal as acted as a spectator, cheering on her teammates! Little Jacques and Gabriella clearly didn’t love all the noise.

princess charlene water bike challenge© GettyImages

Finish line

Winners! Charlene celebrated the big win with her cohorts (and some spark effects) by crossing an actual finish line on Sunday, September 13.

princess charlene family© GettyImages

Sibling rivalry

Charlene’s brother Gareth Wittstock, who competed on an opposing team called “Notorious,” was a good sport. He appeared happy for his sis and her team.

princess charlene kids© GettyImages

Hug it out

Of course, the best way for Charlene to cap off her impressive stint was with a big bear hug. This cute photo captured her pulling the twins in close.

prince albert wife© GettyImages

Proud hubby

She quietly stole a masked kiss from Albert, too. congratulations, Charlene!