Former world champion Terenzo Bozzone (NZL) will head an all-star line up at Challenge Rimini in Italy this Sunday 11 May but with local favourites, Daniel Fontana (ITA) and Alessandro Degasperi (ITA) along with European champion Ritchie Nicholls (GBR) part of the 40-strong pro field, the race is far from a forgone conclusion.
Other contenders include a strong German contingent in the form of Nils Frommhold, Konstantin Bachor and Per Bittner, all of whom are after a spot on the podium.
The women's race promises to be just as exciting with 11-time long distance champion Gina Crawford (NZL) going head to head with Yvonne van Vlerken (AUT). But again, the women's field is very deep and includes Daniela Sämmler (GER) and Eimear Mullan (IRL), both fresh from the podium at Challenge Fuerteventura. Add last year's winner Erika Csomor (HUN) into the mix and the race is on!
Dating back to 268BC, Rimini is one of Italy's most popular beach resorts with its kilometres of sandy beaches, ancient Roman history and vibrant cultural scene making it an ideal place for a holiday as well as a race.
In keeping with Challenge's focus on athlete experience, the Challenge Rimini course is designed to include the best of this spectacular region and promises to be one of the most cultural half distance courses in the world.
Starting in the seaside resort of Rimini, made famous by renowned film maker Federico Fillini, the warm waters of the Adriatic Sea will host the 1.9km swim following which the 90km bike course will head high into the hills surrounding Rimini along roads built by the great Roman emperors. Travelling through the Emilia Romagna Apennines, an area renowned for its stunning landscapes and many fortresses and castles, the course visits the historic towns of Coriano, Montegrimano, Monte Cerignone and Montescudo before heading back down to the Riviera. The 21km run is a three-lap course along Rimini's famous promenade, lined with bars, shops and restaurants and a crowd of thousands before finishing in the shaded beauty of Parco Fellini.
On Sunday 11 May, Challenge Rimini will kick off at 11.00am – follow all the action live at www.challenge-rimini.it.
