Challenge Family racing returns to France on May 14, with the first of its French Riviera races over the middle distance – Ekoï Challenge Fréjus. The second race in the region, Challenge Cagnes-sur-Mer, will take place on June 11.
The 20-strong Ekoï Challenge Fréjus men’s pro field is headed by Sebastian Kienle (GER), as he continues to cherry pick his races of choice in his final year of professional racing. He is joined by Rudy von Berg (USA), Cyril Viennot (FRA), and William Mennesson (FRA).
In the women’s field, South African Magda Nieuwoudt is the favourite on paper with two podiums in her home country and a sixth at DATEV Challenge Roth in 2022. She’ll be lining up alongside Anneka Timm (GER) and French newcomers, Nikita Paskiewiez and Aurélia Boulanger, plus Lilli Gelmini (ITA).
As well as the flagship middle distance race on the Sunday, Challenge Fréjus also features French Grand Prix racing on the Saturday with over 1,200 triathletes arriving in the Mediterranean port town, halfway between Cannes and St Tropez.
The 1.9km swim sets off from Fréjus beach. The 90km bike takes in the Var countryside, through vineyards, picturesque stone villages and includes a climb up the Col du Bougnon with its views of the Gulf of St Tropez. The run is fast and flat before finishing in the François Léotard Nature Park.
The Ekoï Challenge Fréjus start gun goes off at 07:00 CEST on Sunday, May 14.
