Where ancient history meets modern triathlon, Challenge Samarkand is not just a race — it’s an unforgettable journey.
Set in one of the oldest cities on Earth, Samarkand invites triathletes to step into a living museum of culture, architecture, and athletic challenge. Dating back to the 8th century and nestled in southeastern Uzbekistan, this city has witnessed the march of empires and now hosts one of the newest jewels in the Challenge Family crown.
For 2025, Challenge Samarkand returns with a $75,000 PRO prize purse, drawing top-tier elites from across the globe — and offering age-groupers a chance to share the course with the sport’s best.
The Location: Ancient Asia Meets Athletic Ambition
Samarkand isn’t just a city — it’s a legend. With a history as rich as Rome or Babylon, it’s been a crossroads of civilizations for more than two millennia. Today, it’s a unique blend of old and new: the historic Silk Road hub meets a modern city rising from Soviet roots, offering both soul and style in equal measure.
The race is anchored at the Silk Road Samarkand Complex, a 17-hectare, state-of-the-art resort and cultural center that opened in 2022. Expect luxury hotels, world-class dining (both local and Western), and a central setup that makes logistics a breeze for athletes and spectators alike.
Race Course: Fast, Flat & Unforgettable
If you’re chasing a PB or racing your first full-distance triathlon, Challenge Samarkand could be your dream race.
- Swim: Calm, clear waters of a purpose-built rowing lake promise an easy-to-navigate start of the day.
- Bike: Closed, flat roads take you past ancient mausoleums, turquoise-domed madrassahs, and desert vistas that make every kilometer fly by.
- Run: Looping through the Silk Road Complex, the run course is flat, scenic, and spectator-friendly — with all the energy you need to finish strong.
Spectator Paradise
Family and friends will love this one. The entire swim and run are based within the Silk Road Samarkand area, meaning multiple viewing points, ample restaurants, and cultural sights are all within walking distance. Between athlete sightings, spectators can explore the Old City, with highlights like the Registan Square — a stunning backdrop that’s part race-course, part fairy tale.
Why Samarkand? Why Now?
Triathlons in ancient cities are rare. Races that combine UNESCO heritage, modern convenience, and a deep cultural immersion? Even rarer.
This is the Rome of the East, a place where poets walked under mosaic domes and empires rose and fell — and now, where you can swim, bike, and run your way into history. From 15th-century madrassahs to the vibrant local bazaars, Samarkand offers a race-cation like no other. Spend your post-race days exploring artisan workshops, light shows at Registan, or grabbing souvenirs that are literally centuries in the making.
Getting There
The easiest way in? Samarkand International Airport, just 15 minutes from the race village. Alternatively, fly into Tashkent and catch the high-speed Afrosiab train — two hours of sleek comfort through the Uzbek landscape.
Make it Happen
Whether you’re a pro chasing the podium or an age-grouper chasing adventure, Challenge Samarkand is a race worth traveling for. Flat, fast, culturally rich, and wrapped in ancient beauty — this is more than triathlon. It’s history in motion.
Add it to your 2025 calendar. You won’t regret it.
