Challenge Wanaka has one again attracted an impressive field of professional and age group athletes to take on triathlon's ultimate distance in New Zealand's spectacular Southern Alps on 22 February.
 Lake Wanaka, a few days before the 2014 race(Click to enlarge) |
Recently winning the World's Most Scenic Triathlon accolade at Triathlon Business International Awards in the USA, Challenge Wanaka will feature a 30 strong professional field as well as over 1,500 age groupers. In addition over 400 youngsters are expected to take part in the Puzzling World Junior Challenge Wanaka on 21 February and 200 in the Radio Wanaka 5km Charity Fun Run, raising funds for Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand.
Dylan McNeice (NZL) is returning to defend his title and try to make it three from three. However, he will have strong competition from Joel Jameson (GBR) who took out third at Challenge Henley in the UK, along with Challenge Philippines champion Matt Burton (AUS). Wanaka local multisporter turned triathlete Dougal Allan will be looking to improve on his third place last year. In addition all eyes will be on Braden Currie (NZL) who is planning a back-to-back Coast-to-Coast defence and inaugural long distance triathlon.
In the women's pro field, Gina Crawford (NZL) returns in a bid to gain her 13th long distance title which would also be her sixth Challenge Wanaka title, making her New Zealand's most successful long distance female triathlete. Fellow Kiwi Michelle Bremer is also a strong contender, as is Jessica Fleming (AUS) and Christie Sym (AUS), fresh from a second place result at Challenge Melbourne earlier this month.
Live timing is available on race day, 22 February, at www.challenge-wanaka.com with live updates streaming on Twitter @ChallengeWanaka.
 The infamous 2013 swim, cold and rough... but slightly spectacular(Click to enlarge) |
