Challenge Roth attracts big name field once again
Despite worries that the T100 Triathlon World Tour would dilute other major event's fields, the classic Bavarian event includes some big names
Photo by:
Challenge Family/ Christoph Raithel
Highlighted by last year’s record-setting winner Magnus Ditlev (7:24:40), who also happens to be the T100 Triathlon World Tour leader after the first race of the season in Miami a couple of weeks ago, Challenge Roth has once again managed to draw a stellar field.
“I’m happy to announce I will have a go at a three-peat at Challenge Roth this summer!” Ditlev said. “This race holds such a special place in my heart, the amazing atmosphere, the great people of Roth and of course, a fast and challenging course that suits me. I can’t wait to toe the line again against a stacked field and give my best once more.”
The announcement proves that even the top T100 signed athletes are still looking to compete at some full-distance events in 2024.
Magnus Ditlev turns out to be the “smartest” racer of the day
The Dane will face some stiff competition, including last year’s Ironman World Championship Nice runner up, Patrick Lange. The German finished second to Ditlev last year, and would dearly love to add another Roth title to his resume.
Other men in the field who are expected to contend for the podium include France’s Leon Chevalier and Clement Mignon, American Rudy von Berg, Germany’s Jan Stratmann, Denmark’s Daniel Baekkegard, Belgium’s Pieter Heemeryck and New Zealand’s Kyle Smith.
Philipp leads women’s field
After her third place finish last year (8:25:31 – behind Daniela Ryf’s world best and country woman Anne Haug) Germany’s Laura Philipp will lead the women’s field in Roth.
“Roth is one of two highlight races of the season for me, which will be my main focus,” Philipp said. “My goal is to win Roth. After a first year of learning in Roth, I now want to perform even better. My team and I have discussed all the details and drawn up a plan for a successful race. The unique atmosphere in the Home of Triathlon 2023 has inspired me so much that I definitely want to be at the start with a top performance in 2024. I am once again looking forward to the support of the enthusiastic fans and the great volunteers in the Roth region.”
Other women likely to contend for the podium include 2012 Olympic silver medalist Lisa Norden (fifth last year), Germany’s Svenja Thoes, Carolin Lehrieder, Laura Zimmermann and Ann Reischmann, Great Britain’s Laura Siddall and South Africa’s Magda Nieuwoudt.
Moving up to the long distance for the first time is Roth native and former German sprint champion Rebecca Robisch, who is fresh off the win at Challenge Israman earlier this year.
You can find out more about the race, including the full start list, here.
