On 19 April, over 1,500 triathletes will line up on the spectacular Taitung coastline in for the second Challenge Taiwan including a strong international pro field.
Both Dylan McNeice (NZL) and Belinda Granger (AUS) are back to defend their titles and for Granger, Challenge Taiwan marks a major milestone – her 50th long distance triathlon.
 Belinda Granger celebrates her victory at the 2013 Challenge Taiwan(Photo: Darryl Carey) |
McNeice will have to shake off a number of contenders for his title, including Challenge Philippines champion, Matt Burton (AUS), Challenge Vichy champion, Andrej Vistica (CRO), Sweden's Fredrik Croneborg (SWE) as well as probably the world's most prolific long course triathlete, Petr Vabrousek (CZE).
The women's race is also full of promise with Granger joined by Ultraman World Champion Hillary Biscay (USA) returning to Taiwan, along with Kate Bevilaqua (AUS) and Jessica Fleming (AUS) fresh from her second place at Challenge Bateman's Bay in Australia last month.
The venue for Challenge Taiwan, Taitung, is famous for its hot springs and surfing as well as spectacular coastline and mountains and its scenic beauty has earned it the name of 'garden of Taiwan'. The Challenge Taiwan course reflects the many reasons why Taitung is fast becoming the Taiwanese centre for triathlon and cycling.
The two-lap swim takes place in the flowing Lake in Taitung Forest Park followed by an undulating two-lap bike course which heads north between the soaring Carp Mountains and spectacular Pacific Ocean coastline, passing through traditional Taiwan villages along the way. The run combines the cultural heart of Taitung city with the surrounding tranquil rice fields and orchards and vibrant ocean promenade.
Typically of Challenge Family races worldwide, Challenge Taiwan is more than just a single event or a single day – it's a multi-day festival packed with fun and activities for the whole family, athletes and spectators alike! In addition to the flagship racing there are course recces with Chris 'Macca' McCormack, Junior Challenge Taiwan, and the Wish Run, taking place on the evening of Challenge Taiwan race day starting from the Challenge Taiwan finish line. The event will simultaneously serve to motivate night time finishers competing in the triathlon while raising valuable funds for Make-A-Wish Taiwan, a non-profit organization that grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Coverage of Challenge Taiwan is available through www.challenge-taiwan.com.
