When the Atlantic surf meets the hum of carbon wheels, you know something special is about to happen. This weekend, Challenge Vieux Boucau is set to make waves – both literally and figuratively – as over 2,200 athletes descend on France’s southwest coast for a sold-out edition of the race. With 85 professional triathletes toeing the line, the small seaside town is ready to host one of the most competitive Middle Distance showdowns on the European calendar.
Men’s Race: Moreno Leads a Deep Field
All eyes will be on Spain’s Guillem Montiel Moreno, who has been on fire this season. The Challenge Salou 2024 champion has already racked up three wins this year and arrives in Vieux Boucau with serious momentum. But he won’t have it easy.
Britain’s Thomas Davis brings both form and experience, coming off a win at Challenge Salou 2025 and a solid fourth place in Gdańsk. Italy’s Mattia Ceccarelli, returning to Challenge Family racing, adds even more intrigue. The former Challenge Riccione winner (2019) and runner-up in 2022 knows what it takes to perform on this stage.
Also in the mix is rising German star Hannes Butters, who continues to impress after his top-five finish at Challenge St. Pölten, and Belgium’s Tom Vaelen, fresh off a fourth place at Challenge Mogán-Gran Canaria, who’s hungry for his first podium of the season.
In short: the men’s race is loaded – a mix of proven champions and fast-rising contenders, all capable of delivering fireworks on the French coast.
Women’s Race: Billouin Headlines a French Revival
The women’s field, meanwhile, promises its own drama, led by a strong contingent of French athletes. Solenne Billouin, the reigning XTERRA World Champion and 2025 runner-up, is making a much-anticipated move from dirt to tarmac. Her raw strength and endurance could make her a real threat on the road.
Spain’s Zaira Lorenzo adds international spice to the mix. She’s already stood on a Challenge podium this year with third at Challenge Salou, and Vieux Boucau marks her fifth Challenge race of the season. Meanwhile, France’s Alexia Bailly makes a long-awaited return after two injury-plagued years – her last Challenge appearance was back in 2021, when she placed sixth in Salou. For Bailly, simply being back on the start line is a victory – but expect her to race with intent.
Community Spirit: Tri Together and Beyond
Beyond the professional duels, Vieux Boucau will see more than 2,100 age-group athletes from 26 nations take on the weekend’s festival of triathlon. From junior races to Olympic and sprint distances, the event embodies the inclusive spirit of the sport.
One highlight is the Tri Together Relay programme, bringing 165 participants to the start line in teams of friends and family. It’s Challenge Family’s way of lowering the barrier to entry for endurance sport – and celebrating the shared experience that keeps people coming back year after year.
A Perfect Storm of Competition and Camaraderie
With a sold-out field, returning champions, and new names eager to make their mark, Challenge Vieux Boucau has all the ingredients for a classic. As the pros chase victory and the age-groupers chase their own personal bests, the Atlantic coast will once again remind us why triathlon is as much about heart as it is about horsepower.