On September 8, 2024, a number of the world’s top triathletes will converge on the second edition of Challenge Samarkand in Uzbekistan.
Set against the historic backdrop of the ancient Old Silk Road, the event will feature a stacked pro field alongside age-group athletes from 28 nations, all competing in a race that celebrates ‘centuries of history’.
Norwegian athletes Gustav Iden and Kristian Blummenfelt lead the men’s elite lineup. They are joined by Rico Bogen (GER), Ruben Zepunkte (GER) and Thomas Bishop (GBR).
Laura Madsen (DEN) lines up as race favourite in the elite women’s race, alongside Marta Lagownik (POL). Meanwhile, Nicole Van Der Kaay (NZL) is making her professional debut over 113km after representing New Zealand at the Paris Olympics just a few weeks ago.
Elite women
| Athlete | Nationality |
| Laura Madsen | DEN |
| Marta Lagownik | POL |
| Nicole Van Der Kaay | NZL |
| Lottie Lucas | UAE |
| Alina Khakimova | UZB |
Elite men
| Athlete | Nationality |
| Gustav Iden | NOR |
| Kristian Blummefelt | NOR |
| Rico Bogen | GER |
| Thomas Bishop | GBR |
| Ruben Zepunkte | GER |
| Tom Hug | GER |
| Gaetan Fetaud | AND |
| Thor Bendix Madsen | DEN |
| Sebastian Fuchs | AUT |
| Luke Mathews | UAE |
| Bogdan Kovalenko | RUS |
| Quentin Barreau | FRA |
Samarkand is one of the ancient cities of the world and an important Silk Road hub, rich in architecture, culture and a heritage spanning thousands of years.
According to Challenge Family… ‘Challenge Samarkand embraces all of this and more as an unforgettable triathlon destination.’
