Challenge Family today announced the expansion of its global series of long distance triathlons into North America with the launch of Challenge Penticton in Canada.

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

Triathletes practice for Ironman Canada, as an announcement was made it will be replaced next year.

Challenge Penticton joins the Challenge Family‘s series of races that includes the world’s largest long distance triathlon, Challenge Roth (Germany), described by world record holder, Chrissie Wellington, as “simply the best triathlon race in the world.”

Challenge Family CEO Felix Walchshöfer said bringing together two of triathlon’s oldest and most respected races reinforced the all-important legacy of the sport.

“The towns of Roth in Germany and Penticton in Canada have both grown remarkable races since the earliest days of the sport. To have them together in one family, both in the hands of their respective communities, ensures this legacy will continue for years to come,” said Mr Walchshöfer.

The launch of Challenge Penticton sees it as the exclusive long distance Challenge race in Canada, and marks the long-distance race returning to its roots with community support and ownership.

“Challenge Penticton will be community driven and designed to benefit residents and athletes alike,” said Mayor Dan Ashton. “The event will involve a week-long festival that provides a unique experience for athletes, families and spectators, while showcasing our warm and welcoming city. We are happy to be joining the Challenge Family.”

Challenge Penticton will also feature one North America’s most revered triathletes as event ambassador. Three-times world champion and four-times Canadian Triathlete of the Year, Peter Reid, said he was looking forward to building the legacy of the sport with Challenge Family at a race with which he has strong ties.

“It was always my biggest dream to end my career with a race at Penticton but sadly, it just didn’t work out. I’ve watched the race many times with friends since and am looking forward to being a part of this new era of triathlon in Penticton,” he said. “The Challenge Family philosophy of putting the athletes first and giving back to communities is something I strongly endorse and I’m thrilled to come back into the triathlon race scene and support the future of the sport.”

Taking place on August 25, 2013, Challenge Penticton will bring a new race experience to a time-honoured course. Challenge is internationally renowned for its focus on exceeding athlete expectations and delivery high quality races. Athletes will also benefit from the inclusion of relay teams, festival events and the unique Challenge Family atmosphere popular throughout Europe and beyond.

What happened to Ironman? We have two reporters in Penticton digging into the full details on this breaking story and we will have more details as they become available.