Challenge Races versus Ironman Races

Challenge Versus Ironman Races

Pretty much the two main long distance triathlon series in the world. Ironman (IM) or WTC is now owned by a Chinese company & Challenge is German owned. Give me the choice between the two & I will pick a Challenge race but often for squad decision, I will do a WTC race once a year. Why? Because most people want to race an Ironman race & not a Challenge long distance triathlon, especially the beginners or the “Ironman virgin” as they are called. There is also Kona IM of course where triathlon started with a crazy bet between US Marines. I fully understand about wanting to go to Kona to race. I qualified 3 times but I never had the chance to go because of financial reasons & I admit I really want to go & experience the race one day. But apart from the Kona dream, I will chose Challenge most of the time & I want to race Roth one day. Why?

The races are cheaper, the atmosphere is always better, the food & hydration (incl. beer) is better at the finish, the people are friendlier & more accessible, the rules are flexible meaning that if you miss bike racking or rego deadline, you can still race, the drafting zone is 12m compared to 20m & lastly, you feel like a participant with Challenge & not just a number with WTC. Now it is up to you but there is not wrong with finishing your first Ironman by doing a Challenge race, especially in Roth.

About the Author: Stephane Vander Bruggen

5x AG World Champion, Sub 9h Ironman athlete - Stephane originates from Belgium and spent many of his early years racing triathlon there. It is in Belgium through the influence of his parents that he fell in love with the sport. A natural competitor Stephane became a student of the sport always searching for ways to give him an edge over his competition. This constant study and striving for improvement has naturally progressed into a passion for coaching triathlon and its individual disciplines.