Citing a course that is… ‘steeped in ancient and modern history, surrounded by outstanding natural beauty’… Challenge Gallipoli on Türkiye’s Gelibolu Peninsula is the latest international event destination from Challenge Family.
Set to take place on June 2, 2024, the middle distance event is in the heart of a protected historical area with rugged and battle-marked landscapes and far-reaching views over the Dardanelles.
The Gallipoli Campaign needs no introduction as one of the defining battles of the First World War. According to Challenge Family, the new event offers athletes a unique triathlon experience that extends far beyond sport.
“In the heart of Gallipoli, where history echoes from hills and shores, the spirit of endurance and victory emerges,” said Bayram Yalçinkaya, President of the Turkish Triathlon Federation.
“Just as warriors once faced the challenges of this historic land, modern triathletes will win their own battles. With Challenge Gallipoli, triathletes will swim in cool waters, cycle against the wind and run on historical lands in a protected region full of historical and natural beauty.
“Triathletes will experience the Gallipoli region, where history and triathlon meet, as a living proof of endurance, both in terms of the echoes of the past and the steps of today.”
“There is a strong air of reverence at Gallipoli,” said Challenge Family CEO, Jort Vlam. “To hold a triathlon here is a great privilege as we value the peace the sacrifice that those before us enabled.
“There is no doubt this is a race to remember for so many reasons – the history, the outstanding natural beauty, the warm Turkish hospitality and a route that transcends the course of time. We very much look forward to once again working with the Turkish Triathlon Federation to create an unforgettable experience for athletes from all over the world.”
Ismail Kasdemir, President of the Canakkale Wars Gallipoli Historical Site, added “At the point where the Dardanelles meets infinity, Gallipoli stands as a proof of courage that transcends time.
“Here, the sounds of valour echo across the hills and the land tells the story of unity, sacrifice and the enduring spirit that binds nations together in a common memory. Challenge Gallipoli offers athletes not only a race, but also an adventure where they can feel the spirit of these lands rich in history and beauty.”
Participating athletes start from the Old Gendarmerie Pier with a 1.9km swim in cool waters. The single loop 90km bike takes athletes towards ANZAC Cove and its monuments, named after the ANZACs, soldiers from Australia and New Zealand who landed in 1915.
The course takes athletes through the trenches and the lands bearing the traces of the Çanakkale Land Wars, and Conkbayırı. Here they climb steep slopes, and this climb is considered one of the most testing parts of the race.
Leaving Conkbayırı behind, athletes pass in front of the Gestas Ferry Pier and head to Alçıtepe village before returning back to T2.
The athletes once again head to ANZAC Cove for the three-lap run course along the coastline that immerses athletes in the history of the peninsula before crossing the finish line.
