Some athletes do more than just win – they redefine a sport. Anne Haug is one of those rare few. As she announces her retirement from professional triathlon, we at Challenge Family want to take a moment to celebrate not only one of the greatest athletes of this generation, but also a true ambassador of our sport and our races.
Anne Haug’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her early days competing on the World Triathlon circuit – including two Olympic Games appearances (London 2012 and Rio 2016) – to her podium finishes in the World Triathlon Championship Series, Haug consistently demonstrated what it means to race with heart, intelligence, and tenacity.
But it was over the longer distances that she truly cemented her legacy, and nowhere was that more evident than at Challenge Roth and of course Kona.
Haug’s connection to Challenge Family – and especially to Roth – is something to cherish. She won Challenge Roth three times: in 2018, 2019, and most recently in 2024. Each win was impressive, but it was the 2024-edition that etched her name into triathlon history forever. Finishing in a staggering 8:02:38, Anne not only claimed victory in front of a home crowd but also set the fastest time ever recorded over the long distance. It was a performance for the ages – powerful, precise, and deeply emotional.
What made Anne so special wasn’t just her results. It was her presence: always gracious, always professional, and always pushing boundaries. She brought global attention to our races (and of course triathlon in general), inspired the next generation of athletes, and showed fans around the world the beauty of long distance triathlon.
As Anne steps away from racing, she leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond medals and records. She leaves behind inspiration. She leaves behind memories that will live forever in the hearts of people around the globe, and in the heart of the Challenge Family.
From all of us: thank you, Anne. You’ve given this sport – and our races – so much. Enjoy your well-earned next chapter. You will always have a home with Challenge Family.
