Challenge Roth postponed to September

The largest full-distance race in the world, Challenge Roth, has decided that it is “more feasible” to hold the race on Sept. 5 rather than the original July 4 date.

“Many of our participants registered for 4 July are currently well behind in their training, especially when it comes to swimming,” says race director Felix Walchshofer. “In addition, there still considerable travel restrictions in many countries around the world. It is important to us to offer our athletes a safe, high-quality and – in the sense of equal opportunities – fair competition. Due to the ever more extensive vaccinations in large parts of the world and the possible reduction in COVID cases, which also occurred in the summer months last year, holding the race seems more feasible to us in September than in July.

In stark contrast to Ironman’s policies, Challenge Roth is offering refunds (less a processing fee) to athletes who choose not to transfer to this year’s race, or the 2022 event.

“Team Challenge is now looking forward to delivering the world-famous Datev Challenge Roth in the triathlon mecca Roth on 5 September after a year’s break” the organization posted in a press release on its website. “As there is no guarantee it can take place, fair consideration been given for all registered athletes. Athletes can transfer their registration from 4 July to 5 September or, alternatively, move it to next year’s race, which will take place on 3 July 2022, all free of charge. Cancellation is also possible, in which the athletes receive a refund of their entry fee less a processing fee.”