We met Gabriela Gerganova, the 2025 Game Changer who raised the most funds for the association Aviation Sans Frontières, and was therefore able to participate in the Alpe d’Huez L Triathlon thanks to her solidarity bib. As often happens, it all starts with a sold out race you dream of participating in—and ends with an unforgettable and unexpected experience for a good cause.
Who are you Gabriela, Gerganova ?
My name is Gabriela Gerganova. I’m 31 years old, a Bulgarian living in Glasgow, working as a cardiovascular researcher.
What kind of triathlete are you?
I started dabbling in triathlon training in autumn 2021 through my local Glasgow University tri club. Before that, I was mainly road and trail running with friends, could barely swim 50 m front crawl without needing a break, and was commuting regularly on my bike. Up until then, I had mainly been climbing since I was 16.
How did you find out about the charity bibs for the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon?
I was late to register for a race slot and was on a waiting list. I contacted the race organisers and was told I was about 260th down the list, and realised I would never get a space this way. They suggested I raise money for Aviation Sans Frontières, which I had never heard of before.
Had you ever participated in a sporting event to raise funds for a good cause before?
Not of this size, and in fact, I was very nervous about starting a campaign initially. I also thought 500 Euros was such a colossal sum of money to reach.
Why did you choose the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon?
Having done a middle-distance event at home in Scotland in 2024, I wanted to challenge myself by completing another triathlon, this time abroad. I’d heard of the Tour de France passing through the villages around Alpe d’Huez, and I was drawn to an event in such a stunning location and the challenge that climbing the Alpe requires. I was intrigued by the bike and run distances being unique to this race, and by the opportunity to swim in a reservoir filled with crystal-clear Alpine water.
What was your initial motivation when you created your fundraising page? How much money did you manage to raise for Aviation Sans Frontières?
I undoubtedly wanted a spot on the M race when I initially considered fundraising. Then I made the decision to dedicate the campaign to my dad, who I lost to a heart attack in January 2025. I was completely taken aback by the success the page had from the early days, and I still marvel at having managed to raise 1,773 Euros.
Did being part of the Game Changers programme play a role in your preparation?
Even though this race was initially just a fun planned activity, when people’s generous donations kept coming in daily, Alpe d’Huez quickly became the main focus on my racing calendar. This kept me very motivated to train, which admittedly sometimes distracted me from other important “races” on the calendar, such as writing my PhD thesis.
How did you raise funds? Did you have a strategy in place?
Initially, I started spreading the word within my family and friends. They were my most generous donors. As it got closer to the event, I posted the fundraising page across my social media accounts, which I’ll admit are usually quiet. That helped to increase the funds even further. I was in awe every time I looked at my page. From being worried that 500 Euros was too large a sum, to seeing my campaign near the top of the Game Changers website, and then realising that I would probably win top fundraiser.
How did your race go?
The race itself went well too. I had a good swim and am happy to report that all my worries about being cold in the water, or straight after, from the few days before the race—when it rained and was generally colder—were unfounded. It was quite warm on the climb, but the energy of the supporters around the Dutch Corner was incredible—I have never experienced anything like it before! At the start of the run, I had a classic bout of calf pain but pushed on, knowing it would go away once I settled into a rhythm. The pieces of watermelon I grabbed from volunteers were the best thing I ate all day.
During the race, did you think about the charity or the meaning behind your participation? Did that push you on?
Whenever it got really hard during the race, I had the extra motivation of keeping going, knowing that some of my donors were following my race and willing me to do my best.
Would you recommend the experience to other triathletes?
I would say the middle-distance Alpe d’Huez race is like nothing else you may have done or are considering for next season. Its course uniqueness made it an obvious choice for me. The history and epic setting of the triathlon speak for themselves, and I can highly commend the organisers for making the experience smooth in every possible way. I would strongly encourage anyone considering this race to raise funds for Aviation Sans Frontières and make their campaign memorable.
Do you have any advice for a triathlete who is embarking on this adventure?
I would recommend practising hill climbs, and if your budget allows it, investing in a cassette with a very large number of cogs to allow you to spin your legs at a decent pace on the bike leg. For the run, I would also recommend acclimating to the modest but not negligible altitude, if you can spend some time there ahead of the race.
The GAME CHANGERS program
GAME CHANGERS are participants in the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon who have raised funds for the Aviation sans Frontières Association and obtained their race numbers by reaching the set target (€900 for the L Triathlon, €500 for the M Triathlon and €200 for the Duathlon).
All fundraising is done on the secure donation platform set up by Aviation sans Frontières. It’s easy, efficient and clear!
If you’re looking for a race number for the 20th edition, get started!