In a refreshing twist on the traditional triathlon format, the city of Antwerp is introducing the ‘Chillathlon’ next spring – an event where finish times, rankings, and competition are thrown completely out the window. The only goal? To have fun.
Set for May 31, 2026, participants will still cover the full Olympic triathlon distance – or slightly more – with 1.5 kilometers of swimming, 45 kilometers of biking, and 10 kilometers of running. But unlike any other race, athletes are welcome to complete the course however they like: on a city bike, a cargo bike or whatever bike they prefer.
“Feel free to stop halfway for a coffee,” organizers told national media, which quickly jumped on the story.
The event’s message is clear and simple: fun comes first. “Unlike other sporting events, this isn’t about chasing the best time or the stress that comes with it,” the organizers emphasized.