This Sunday’s third edition of Challenge Samarkand promises to be one for the books: high temperatures, most likely strong winds, and a stacked pro field all but guarantee a brutal yet spectacular race in Uzbekistan. The professionals lining up aren’t shying away from the challenge – on the contrary, they’re eager to battle it out on one of triathlon’s most unique stages. As several put it simply: “Winning here would be fantastic.”
The pro press conference – which was held this afternoon – already hinted at fireworks. While not every contender was present, big names like Max Stapley, Will Draper, Henri Schoeman, Amelia Watkinson, Sara Pérez Sala, and Marta Lagownik were on hand – enough to confirm that the fight for the win will be fierce.
Lagownik is the only athlete with prior Samarkand experience, having finished second here last year. “It’s going to be hot, so cooling strategies will be crucial. But that’s the same for everyone. For me, it will be important to stay close to Sara (Pérez Sala, ed.) and not lose sight of her on the bike. The first half of my season has been fantastic, and I hope to carry that momentum forward,” said the Polish athlete, who has recently been able to focus more fully on triathlon after stepping back from other work commitments.
Pérez Sala, one of the field’s strongest swimmers, also embraces the tough conditions. “I love it. My form is good – I’ve been training at altitude for a month and the sessions were perfect. I’ll push hard in the swim, ride as hard as I can, and then just hope I don’t explode on the run,” she explained laughing, outlining a strategy that has often worked for her. “I feel strong and I believe I can deliver a great race. Winning here would be amazing, but everyone wants that, so it won’t be easy.”
Amelia Watkinson – one of the most experienced athletes alongside Pérez Sala – is equally motivated. “With age comes experience. We have an interesting mix here of younger and more seasoned athletes, which means different racing strategies and a great show for spectators,” said the New Zealander, who recently won a 70.3 in the Philippines. “I’ll give everything I have, and I’m lining up with a lot of confidence.”
On the men’s side, Max Stapley is seen as a leading contender, despite splitting his season between WTCS racing and the Middle Distance. “I like to keep things interesting and mix it up. Many top athletes now compete across distances, and I think it’s possible. If you can run a fast 10K, you can run a fast half-marathon as well. My training doesn’t need major changes for Middle Distance racing – just more work on the TT bike, more time in the aero position, and dialing in the nutrition. I’m excited to learn this weekend, but mostly I’m enjoying how well everything is organized here. The venue is beautiful, the hotel is amazing – we have everything we need.”
Henri Schoeman, meanwhile, is aiming for a turnaround in his season. “This year hasn’t been ideal. But after Challenge Roth, I feel I’m back in good shape, and now I’m taking it race by race. I hope to get back to my best soon. Winning here would mean a lot for my confidence, but with this field it won’t be easy,” said the South African Olympic bronze medalist.
Will Draper, however, is coming in hot after an excellent season that includes victory at Challenge Mogán-Gran Canaria and a runner-up finish at Challenge St. Pölten. “Winning is fantastic, but it also brings a different kind of pressure – being first is very different from being second or third. I started as an Age Grouper and always raced Middle Distance. All my trainings are focusing on this distance and has always been. That’s why racing this distance is not that demanding for me: it feels like a regular training weekend. The difference is now I get paid for it,” he joked. “It will be very interesting to see who’s standing on the top step of the podium this Sunday.”