Half distance triathlon, Challenge Walchsee-Kaiserwinkl is situated in one of the most scenic places in the Austrian Tyrol with its spectacular mountain views and crystal clear lake. The resort town of Walchsee is set on the shores of the lake at the foot of the imposing Kaiser mountain range close to the German and Italian borders. The area is not only famous for its scenery, but also for the warm-hearted and welcoming locals. No wonder, that in the last few years Challenge athletes are not only guests, but also have become friends.
The swim in Walchsee is 1.9km long and the water is so clear you can drink it. The 90km bike course leads two loops (each 45km) through the beautiful region of Kaiserwinkl with spectacular mountain views. Altogether the 90km loop covers 1,100 m of altitude difference.
Athletes will be relieved the four lap run is much flatter, although still has a few hills to keep things interesting! The 21km course heads around the lake along the promenade, past farmhouses with their colourful window boxes and through alpine meadows, always with a stunning view of the Kaiser Massif and Lake Walchsee. The finish line is situated in the heart of Walchsee, next to the transition area with beautiful view on the lake and on the Kaiser Massif and with an enthusiastic crowd celebrating the athletes crossing the finish line.
There’s a final treat for athletes at the end of the race. The region is renowned for its Kaiserchmarrn, a delicious pancake dessert that’s sure to put power back into tired limbs – most athletes can’t get enough of it in the recovery tent!
Based on many years of cooperation with the European Triathlon Union (ETU) and the CHALLENGE FAMILY GmbH, in 2016 the official European Middle Distance Triathlon Championships are going to be held in Austria for the first time.
