It’s one of the first big events on European soil in 2022 and that means the pros know to find the race well: Challenge Salou prepares to host over 80 pro triathletes on Apr. 3. In the women’s race, Sweden’s Lisa Norden will give it her all to try to defend her 2021 Challenge Salou title. In the men’s race, it’s France’s Vincent Luis who’s one of the top favorites for the victory.
Norden will likely be treated with a tough battle again, as last year’s runner-up, Els Visser (NLD), is present again too. There are two other big names on the list, though: 2019 Ironman World Champion Anne Haug (GER) and Nicola Spirig (SUI). Also, Kat Matthews (GBR), Fenella Langridge (GBR), Judith Corachan Vaquera (ESP), Laura Zimmermann (GER), Elisabetta Curridori (ITA), Daniela Bleymehl (GER), Justine Mathieux (FRA) and India Lee (GBR) will join the battle.
Meanwhile, in the men’s race, all eyes will be on short-distance talent Vincent Luis who will try to find his way to the highest podium spot. He may have only little experience on the Middle Distance, he’s an incredibly fast runner and – even after crashing on the bike – he showed to be able to handle the half-marathon during last year’s Ironman 70.3 Indiana Wells. However, there are some strong athletes burning to give the Frenchman a hard time: World Triathlon Long Distance Champion Kristian Hogenhaug (DEN) will toe the line, just like Adam Hansen (AUS), Pieter Heemeryck (BEL), Nick Kastelein (AUS), Jan Stratmann (GER), Patrik Nilsson (SWE), Giulio Molinari (ITA) and former pro cyclist Jan Stratmann (GER).
