Challenge Wanaka Set For Sunday

Challenge Wanaka—known for having one of the most beautiful courses on the planet—is set for this Sunday, Feb. 22.

Photo: Phil Walter

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Challenge Wanakaknown for having one of the most beautiful courses on the planetis set for this Sunday, Feb. 22. Age groupers and professionals will take on the iron-distance race in New Zealand’s Southern alps.

The race will welcome a 30-strong professional field, as well as over 1,500 age groupers. Dylan McNeice (NZL) is returning to defend his title and try to make it three for 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 his last year’s third place. Another to watch is Braden Currie (NZL), who is taking on his first 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 win, making her New Zealand’s most successful long-distance female triathlete. Fellow Kiwi Michelle Bremer is also a strong contender, as are Jessica Fleming (AUS) and Christie Sym (AUS).

Live timing will be available at Challenge-wanaka.com. Live updates will be available at @ChallengeWanaka.

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