The inaugural Challenge Beijing has been officially launched with a high profile press conference in Yanqing District, Beijing. During the event, the local organising committee revealed latest details about this highly anticipated race, including the schedule and course details, while inviting triathlon fans and supporters to come and experience the excitement of the sport and the diverse charm of Yanqing.
Attendees included representatives from China Triathlon Sports Association (CTSA), Beijing Sports Competitions Administration and International Exchange Center, Yanqing District, Beijing Shi Yuan Investment Development Co., Ltd., Challenge Family, and Druid Sports.
Showcasing Yanqing’s Cultural and Tourism Essence Through the Event
Yanqing District, lying in the northwest of Beijing, is renowned for its unique geographical location and rich tourism resources. The Great Wall, the Beijing Shiyuan International Tourism Resort, and the Winter Olympics are considered Yanqing’s three “Gold-lettered Signboards”. In recent years, Yanqing has been making effort on linking and integrating the district’s tourism resources to promote year-round tourism development.
Yanqing is also accelerating the construction outdoor sports district, vigorously developing activities such as camping, ice and snow entertainment, cycling, hiking, and off-road running. By leveraging the fame and influence of the Winter Olympics, Yanqing has launched a series of boutique routes and special events to enhance its reputation and influence. This transition from “cold ice and snow” to “hot resources” aims to foster regional innovation, integration of culture, sports, and tourism, and develop the “post-Olympic” economy.
Challenge Beijing 2024 in Yanqing further exemplifies the innovative concept of “traveling with the event.” By hosting high-level international events and combining them with local natural landscapes and cultural heritage, a vibrant sports culture and tourism ecosystem is created, attracting more visitors who seek a healthy lifestyle and deep travel experiences.
“Burning Passion, Infinite Breakthroughs”: Creating a Grand Triathlon Event
Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Almere, the Netherlands, the Challenge Family has become the world’s leading global triathlon festival race series and the fastest growing mass triathlon brand. The Challenge Beijing 2024 in Yanqing has been certified as an A+ level event by the China Triathlon Sports Association (CTSA). Twelve international top professional athletes including Kyle Smith, Julie Derron, Paula Findlay, Frederic Funk, and Lucy Byram will compete in this event.
Zhu Zhengjun from the China Triathlon Sports Association (CTSA), stated, “With the booming development of national fitness activities, more and more people are paying attention to and participating in triathlon. Triathlon is not only a test of physical and mental endurance but also reflects an attitude of pursuing excellence and enjoying a healthy lifestyle. Challenge Beijing 2024 will serve as a benchmark for promoting triathlon in China.”
Jort Vlam, CEO of the Challenge Family, commented, “Challenge Family events are triathlon festivals, where everyone feels at home. And now, we are tremendously proud to announce a new event in the capital of this beautiful country: Beijing. For Challenge Family it is a great step and I can assure you, it’s only the first step. With strong local partnerships, we are confident this event will become a must-do on our annual calendar, creating lasting traditions together.”
Yang Wang, Vice President of Druid China, introduced the latest information about Challenge Beijing at the press conference. The event, themed “Burning Passion, Infinite Breakthroughs,” aims to provide a high-quality triathlon experience for athletes of all ages and abilities, creating unforgettable moments for sports enthusiasts. The event captures and unleashes all passion and emotion, encouraging every participant to push their limits and achieve breakthroughs.
The event will take place on 7 and 8 September 2024, at Beijing Shi Yuan International Tourism Resort in Yanqing District. The Sprint Distance race will be held on Saturday, September 7, and the Olympic Distance race on Sunday, September 8.
To ensure a smooth and safe race for participants, multiple medical service points, ambulances, and supply stations will be set up along the racecourse. Participants will also be provided with rich F&B benefits to maintain energy levels before, during, and after the race. Additionally, Hyatt Regency Beijing Shiyuan will offer discounted and convenient accommodation for participants and their families, providing comprehensive and meticulous service guarantees.
The top three Olympic Distance athletes in each age group for men and women will qualify for the The Championship on May 16-18, 2025, in Samorin, Slovakia. Additionally, five people from the Olympic Distance group will be randomly selected to receive registration code for the iconic DATEV Challenge Roth 2025, allowing them to showcase their passion for triathlon and achieve their full potential on an international stage.
During the press conference, international professional athletes Frederic Funk, Amelia Watkinson, Ellie Salthouse, and Marc Dubrick also sent their blessings and expectations for the event through video messages, hoping to enjoy the fun and passion of the race with triathlon enthusiasts.
The strategic partnership signing ceremony for Challenge Beijing 2024 also took place at the event. Xing Hongmei from JD.com and Xu Pengfei from Beijing Youth Daily, and Barbara Zhang, President of Druid China, officially signed the partnership agreement, aiming to activate the event’s immense value through concerted efforts.
Registration for Challenge Beijing 2024 is now open. Follow the event’s official social media account or visit the official website (www.challenge-beijing.com) for the registration link.
