The popular Challenge Peguera-Mallorca returns this weekend to the Balearic Islands with a sold-out field, featuring more than 60 professional athletes and over 1,300 age group participants.
In the women’s professional field, European Middle Distance Champion Lena Meißner (GER) will make her first Challenge Family appearance after transitioning from short-course racing last year. Joining her is Daisy Davies (GBR), who has enjoyed an outstanding season with victory at Challenge Almere-Amsterdam in her long-distance debut and second place at The Championship. Sweden’s Anna Bergsten, a returning favourite after finishing second at Challenge Vieux Boucau last year, will also be one to watch. Lisa Gerß (GER), winner of Challenge Herning 2021, brings proven form to Mallorca, while Marta Bernardi (ITA), a familiar face on the Challenge Family circuit, will look to add another strong result to her list of podium finishes in recent seasons.
The men’s professional race is equally competitive. Jonathan Wayaffe (BEL), third at Challenge Salou earlier this year and winner of Challenge Barcelona last season, is known for strong late-season performances. Ognjen Stojanovic (SRB) enters with nine races already this year and three Challenge Family podiums, making him one of the most experienced athletes on the start line. James Teagle (GBR), second at Challenge London in 2023, will be aiming for that podium spot again. Also in contention is Alessio Crociani (ITA), winner of Challenge Cesenatico, who has impressed with his ability to perform across both short and long distances, and Rafael Lukatsch (AUT), who narrowly missed the podium at both Challenge Walchsee and Challenge St. Pölten and will be eager to make the step up this weekend.
Beyond the professional race, more than a thousand age group athletes will take part, many combining the competition with an end-of-season stay on the island. Challenge Peguera-Mallorca offers an event atmosphere that extends far beyond the main event. Side events such as the Junior Challenge, Women’s Run, Nit de Foc, Rock Concert, and the traditional Pasta Party and After Race Celebration create a festival experience for athletes, families, and spectators alike. With its combination of challenging terrain, coastal scenery, and the local support, it is easy to see why Challenge Peguera-Mallorca was named Challenge Family Race of the Year 2024.
Challenge Peguera-Mallorca takes place on Saturday, 18 October, with the professional start at 9:00 am local time. Live updates will be available at www.challenge-family.live, and further information can be found at www.challenge-mallorca.com.
