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Few races are more iconic than Challenge Wanaka. A regular entry on the ‘triathlons to do before you die’ list, this jewel of a race needs to be seen – and raced – to be believed. One of the world’s toughest middle-distances courses? Check. A breathtaking landscape from start to finish? Check. Bragging rights for a lifetime? Check, check, check. Not that you need any more convincing, but here’s triathlon writer Liz Barrett with your complete guide to Challenge Wanaka.
For almost 20 years, Challenge Wanaka has enthralled, inspired and pushed the world’s very best multisports to their absolute limits. As New Zealand’s largest triathlon festival, this must-do race features events for all ages and abilities, involves over 2,500 participants, and attracts 10,000 spectators and a global audience of millions. If Wanaka had a middle name it’d be ‘epic’.
Beyond the race itself, the country of New Zealand promises a race-cation trip like no other, so if you can, set aside a few weeks to experience all the very best that this race and nation have to offer.
Location - Worth the journey
This race-of-a-lifetime takes place in one of the most beautiful places on the planet – the Te Wahipounanmu World Heritage Area in New Zealand’s Southern Alps on the South Island. Yes, it’s a little far for a lot of people, but boy is it worth the journey.
Why race... Challenge Wanaka
Challenge Wanaka should be at the top of every race bucket list. Here’s why:
Course - Tough, honest and awe-inspiring racing
A freshwater lake swim, a hilly bike – hello 1,413m vertical gain and a flat lakeside run – sounds (relatively) simple, right? Think again…
Swim - 1.9km
A single transition zone in the centre of the race site on the lakefront makes race-day logistics super simple. The one-lap swim in the tranquil waters of Lake Wanaka sets off in waves by both gender and age-group.
BIke - 90km
Three out-and-back laps over this spectacular course take place between the lake and the mountains – and they’re deceptively hilly! Also note that the drafting rule is 12m for age-groupers and 20m for pros.
Run - 21km
Two beautiful, flat run laps take competitors around the searingly stunning lake’s edge, and involve a mix of trail and concrete, as well as incredible spectator-lined support.
Race training & prep
Hit the hills on two wheels to put the necessary mileage into those bike legs for Wanaka race day. If you can, also find a lake to swim in to acclimate to that unique swimming environment.
If you’re UK-based the best place to train would be the Lake District, an area that best mimics what you’ll experience on race day in NZ.
When you arrive in Wanaka, there’s a special designated swim area in the lake where no boats are allowed, plus there’s a 25m pool at the local sports centre.
The area is cycling heaven and the course can be ridden, and run, prior to race day, along with all the other roads in the region – you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Travel & accommodation
As a popular tourist destination, Wanaka has a host of accommodation to suit all budgets. Find out more at www.lakewanaka.co.nz
Because it’s a very small town most amenities are within walking distance. But if you’re travelling from overseas a hire car is imperative – plus you’ll need it for your post-race travels in this spectacular country.
On the day of the race itself, there’s plenty of parking nearby, but it’s also walkable from many of the town’s accommodation options.
Spectators - soak up the festival vibes
Being a triathlon festival, there is of course plenty to keep your support crew amused and entertained in the lead-up week while you’re prepping for your big day. In fact, there are eight different events to choose from for all ages abilities, starting from as young as pre-schoolers.
The venue is ideally located in and around the town centre and lakefront with all its bars, cafes and restaurants, so spectating opportunities are spot-on. Transition is also right in the centre of the town.
Race-cation - explore the great outdoors
Summer in Wanaka runs from the beginning of December to the end of February, with sunset not until gone 9pm, giving you plenty of time to explore this breathtaking landscape.
With these kinds of vistas, the outdoors is of course king in this part of the world. On the lake, you can take your pick from kayaking, paddle boarding, water sports and boating, canyoning or just simply taking a swim at one of the many beach spots.
On land, there’s a multitude of walking, hiking and cycling trails with incredible scenery guaranteed with every single step or pedal stroke.
For those after more of an adrenaline rush, there’s skydiving, 4-wheel drive off-road excursions, quad biking, horse trekking and climbing – there are close to 1,000 climbing routes of grades 8-31 – where you can even take on the world’s highest waterfall via ferrata.
The best way to discover the area, though, is with a local guide who will ensure an authentic experience in Wānaka.
Be part of the world’s most scenic triathlon and a bucket list event for triathletes around the world. It is also New Zealand’s largest triathlon festival, featuring events for all ages and abilities involving over 2,500 participants, attracting 10,000 spectators and a global audience of millions. Challenge Wānaka - the race of a lifetime for athletes wanting to compete and holiday in paradise!
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