This Sunday, Challenge Kaiserwinkl-Walchsee will take place in the Austrian Alps. Exciting racing is promised in men’s and women’s races, featuring a deep field of 20 professional women and 44 professional men athletes.
This year’s Challenge Kaiserwinkl-Walchsee boasts a strong German presence in the professional men’s field. Maurice Clavel (GER), the reigning 2019 champion, is returning from a long injury to compete against Tom Hug (GER). Within the Challenge Family circuit, Hug’s results include multiple wins at Challenge St. Pölten and a formidable fourth-place finish in Walchsee last year, making him a strong contender for the win. Also in the mix are Panagiotis Bitados (GRE), bronze medalist in 2022, and Maximilian Sperl, another German powerhouse and the winner of Challenge Sanremo 2023.
An exciting battle is also expected in the women’s race. Julia Derron (SUI), in the middle of her Olympic preparation, stands out with multiple middle-distance wins and, of course, her qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. She will be racing against Diede Diederiks (NED), who secured third place at Challenge Peguera-Mallorca last year, and Anna Pabinger (AUS), who secured fifth place at Challenge St. Pölten in May.
The Challenge Kaiserwinkl-Walchsee is more than just a race, it’s a testament to the strong bond between the athletes and the welcoming residents. With its full weekend of events and the region’s breathtaking beauty, this event has become a valued experience for participants and their families. The region, with its idyllic setting and a wide range of activities and adventures for all ages, adds extra appeal forto this destination race..
