The inaugural Earshots Challenge Wanaka Cross Triathlon has been confirmed as part of the Triathlon New Zealand Suzuki National Series. This event is a qualifier for the 2023 World Triathlon Multisport World Championships, in Ibiza, Spain, held on April 29th to May 7th, 2023.
The Challenge Wanaka Cross Triathlon will take place on February 18th, 2023. The event utilises the waters of Glendhu Bay for a one lap swim leg of 1500m. The bike course then takes athletes for two laps through the Bike Glendhu Bike Park, tackling some Grade 4 tracks, totalling 32km. The race finishes with a 10.5km trail run through more of the Bike Glendhu tracks.
“It is incredibly exciting to have been chosen as a qualifier for the World Championships, especially in the first year of the event,” said Bill Roxburgh, Integrity Homes Challenge Wanaka Race Director.
“We should have a fantastic race on our hands with athletes battling it out for a much-coveted spot at the World Champs. We know there are plenty of awesome mountain bikers in the area and this new addition to the festival allows them to get involved in this hugely popular event.”
Mel Saltiel, Community Manager at national governing body Triathlon NZ, said “We are excited to award the Cross Triathlon National Championships to the team at Challenge Wanaka for the next two years. This secures the event as the qualifying race for the World Championships in Ibiza, Spain, in 2023 and Townsville, Australia, for the 2024 World Triathlon Championships.”
The Aquabike at Challenge Wanaka has also been confirmed as part of the Triathlon New Zealand Suzuki Mid Distance Aquabike South Island Championships and is a secondary qualifier for the 2023 World Championships in Ibiza, Spain.
In addition to this, the first overall male and female winner will also receive flights up to the value of NZ$2,500 and an accommodation subsidy, due to the generosity and support of Garth Barfoot as part of the Garth Barfoot Prize Offering for Aquabike events that are a part of the Triathlon NZ Suzuki National Series.
