A sold-out record field of over 7,000 athletes is getting ready to line up at Asia’s largest long distance triathlon, Challenge Taiwan, on Saturday April 22, 2023, over both the long and middle distances.
This year also sees the return of an international professional field over the middle distance for the first time since Covid restrictions lifted in the country.
Now in its 11th year, Challenge Taiwan, is set in southern Taiwan in Taitung on the Pacific Ocean. The course takes in the best of the ocean road and tropical rainforests as well as the local culture. Coupled with one of the sport’s largest expos, the race atmosphere and warm Taiwanese welcome, Challenge Taiwan has become one of Asia’s bucket events.
Australian, Caleb Nobel heads the men’s field after narrowly missing out on a podium at Challenge Wanaka and securing third at IRONMAN 70.3 Tasmania. He is joined by fellow countryman, Kurt McDonald and Frenchman Kevin Portmann along with up-and-coming Kiwi pro, Ben Hamilton. They will take on local Taiwanese athlete Tuan Chun Chang, fresh off a third place at IM 70.3 Davao.
In the women’s race, Amelia Watkinson travels to Challenge Taiwan from New Zealand. She is a frequently seen athlete at Challenge Family races and is one of the most competitive athletes in the field. Australian Dimity Lee Duke and American Amy van Tassel, however, bring a hefty dose of experience and will also have their sights set on the podium. In addition, Australians Courtney Gilfillan and Cassie Heaslip are racing, ready to show the world what they are capable of.
