Challenge Family today announced its newest addition to the global series of long distance triathlons on the spectacular Caribbean island of Aruba.
Set over the half distance, Challenge Aruba will take place on 23 October on the ‘Happy Island’ of Aruba with its crystal clear blue waters, pearly white beaches and balmy Caribbean climate – the perfect combination for a race in paradise!
The Challenge Aruba course stands out not just for its beauty but for its speed, variety and quality.
The 1.9km swim is a single lap course in the clear warm Caribbean sea in front of the famous Palm Beach. The undulating 90km bike course is over four laps along the coastline, passing through some of the island’s most popular beaches before heading to the famous lighthouse of Aruba.
 Palm Beach, around which Challenge Aruba will be centered(Photo: Challenge Family; click to enlarge) |
The run-course is entirely along the white beaches of Aruba. Three laps which alternate between the boulevard (The Strip) and the path on the beach in front of the exclusive hotels of Aruba that join the Palm Beach Area. The finish line will be situated on the boulevard at The Hyatt Regency Resort.
A sprint distance race will also be available for athletes who would rather keep it short and sweet. The sprint consists of a 750m swim, followed by a 22.5km cycle and finally a 7km run.
Otmar E Oduber, Minister of Tourism said he was looking forward to welcoming athletes to the island. “As the Minister of Tourism, and on behalf of our One Happy Island, I would like to welcome you to Aruba for the inaugural race of Challenge Aruba. Our commitment is to provide you with safety, beautiful scenery, and warm support in a unique and breathtaking atmosphere. I look forward to cheer you on as you make your way to becoming one of the first ever finishers of what promises to be a beautiful race!”
Marcus Altmann, global operations for Challenge Family, said Challenge Aruba was a great addition to the series, especially for North American athletes. “Racing in paradise is always a hard opportunity to turn down,” he said. “The convenience of getting to Aruba from the North American mainland makes this a perfect race to escape the autumn weather and get some sun before winter hits. A great way to close out the season.”
Operating under the motto “Your Challenge is Our Challenge” the Challenge Aruba team aims to provide participants and their families with a complete holiday that goes beyond hosting the best triathlon event. As well as the half and sprint distance races, there is an extensive and varied program of additional activities to ensure that triathletes and their companions get the most out of their stay.
Festivities will kick-off in the best way Aruba knows, an exotic beach party! Enjoy an extensive buffet with a variety of dishes while listening to a local-band adding a Caribbean flair on the moonlit beach. Sticking with the beach-theme, post-race will be a lavish beach and pool award party at the prestigious Hyatt Resort.
And in the build-up to Challenge Aruba athletes can benefit from a number of clinics and seminars from triathlon icons Marc Herremans and Tim DeBoom as ambassadors of the race.
There’s plenty to do pre and post-race as well, making Challenge Aruba the perfect ‘race-cation’ destination. For total relaxation, alabaster beaches and gentle seas are good for the soul. Or rock your world with wet ‘n wild adventures, deep sea diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, even parasailing and sky diving! Tee off on a championship golf course, saddle up on horseback, take a tour, or hike through Arikok National Park and discover the island’s fascinating natural wonders, from rock formations to natural bridges. Shop ‘til you drop, enjoy glittering nightlife and fabulous restaurants. Broaden your cultural horizons with visits to museums and art galleries, and don't miss the weekly Bon Bini and Caribbean festivals.
The inaugural Challenge Aruba will take place on 23 October 2016. For entries and further information, visit www.challenge-aruba.com.
