An area rich in Viking history and fjords is home to the latest addition to the Challenge Family international series of triathlons. Challenge Sandefjord in Norway will take place on August 24, 2024, with athletes racing over the middle distance across the Norwegian countryside and coastline.
The new event in Norway builds on a number of recent announcements from Challenge Family. In Italy, the new Challenge Cesenatico is set for May 2024. Meanwhile, Challenge Family is re-entering North America with SAIL Challenge Cap Québec in Québec, Canada, and entering the Middle East market with Challenge Israman in Israel.
Sandefjord in Norway is 120km from Oslo and is popular coastal town and holiday destination with a Viking history going back over 1,000 years.
Race day kicks off with a leap into the local fjord for the single lap 1.9km sheltered swim before heading out on the two-lap 90km bike. The rolling course passes through the Norwegian landscape as well as the site of one of the oldest Viking ships found in Norway.
Challenge Family adds that the route takes in Døla Hill, packed with spectators and music. The four lap run is through the heart of the city centre, along narrow streets lined, before finishing in the city park by the local Whalers’ Monument.
Olav Kyree Feld, Challenge Sandefjord Race Director, said “Bringing Challenge Family to eastern Norway gives a large number of Norwegian triathletes the chance to race over the middle-distance on their home turf.
“We also want to give as many people as possible the opportunity to try a triathlon, so we are organising a short super sprint where you can test to see how much fun triathlon really is. Sandefjord is as perfect as it can get for having a compact event where everything is a short distance away, making it convenient for athletes and spectators alike.”
Challenge Family CEO, Jort Vlam added “We’re looking forward to working with Olav and the local community to bring middle distance racing to this part of Norway, not only with a world-class field but also by supporting the sport from the grassroots up across the weekend.
“It’s a stunning race destination within easy reach of the rest of Europe and a great place to spend some days after the race exploring and relaxing.”
Norwegian Olympic gold medallist and multiple world champion, Kristian Blummenfelt said “I’m very happy to hear Challenge Family is coming to Norway with Challenge Sandefjord next August. It’s a beautiful part of the country and I look forward to supporting the event in any way I can.”
