Challenge Family is proud to announce Challenge with its partnership Israman in a ground-breaking move that marks a significant milestone in the event’s illustrious 25-year history.
Since its inception in 1999, Israman has been synonymous with excellence, attracting athletes from all corners of the globe to the shores of Eilat, Israel. The decision to join the Challenge Family series comes as part of Israman's ongoing commitment to enhancing the triathlon experience for athletes and fans alike, ensuring a brighter and more exhilarating future for the sport.
The 25th anniversary race, set to take place on 26 January 2024, will continue the tradition of offering a challenging and picturesque course that showcases the breath-taking landscapes of Eilat and the surrounding area. Athletes can expect an unforgettable race experience that blends the unique allure of Israman with the renowned quality and standards of Challenge Family.
Challenge Israman will feature a range of race options, catering to athletes of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. The event will continue to uphold its reputation for challenging courses, with options for both middle and long distances, as well as relay races.
This partnership will further raise the profile of Challenge Israman on the global stage, attracting world-class athletes and triathlon enthusiasts from around the world and cementing its status as a must-attend race on the international triathlon calendar. It will also provide a platform for professional athletes to earn points towards the Challenge Family World Bonus, plus be a PTO Silver Tier event, further incentivising top-tier competition at the event.
"There is no better gift for the 25th anniversary of Israman than the association with the international Challenge brand, which specialises in long-distance triathlons and is considered by many athletes to be the best in the world," said Merav Itshaki, CEO of Shvoong, the local event organising company. "The dream of turning Israman, which is chosen year after year as one of the 10 most beautiful and challenging competitions in the world, into an international competition in Israel is finally coming true. We are sure the connection between the brands will boost the competition to the next level, will significantly increase the number of international athletes coming to compete in Israel in the winter, under excellent conditions in Eilat and will allow the local athletes to experience an international event that retains its local characteristics. Together with Challenge, we at Shvoong will make sure the experience of the athletes and their families will be one to remember."
Eli Lankri, mayor of the city of Eilat, said, " We are delighted and excited to announce the inclusion of Israman in the international Challenge Family triathlon series, joining both the professional circuit and international events, as they celebrate 25 years of excellence. The incorporation of 'Israman Eilat' into the renowned Challenge triathlon series undoubtedly elevates its profile, drawing more participants and spectators. Attendees can anticipate an exceptional and well-organized competition set against a captivating and untamed backdrop, recognised by triathlon experts as one of the world's top 10 events. I would like to commend the 'Israman Eilat’ team for their ongoing commitment and efforts and our seamless collaboration with the Challenge series. I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to the loyal participants of 'Israman Eilat' who visit us annually to take part in this esteemed event, appreciate our beautiful scenery and vibrant community, and share our deep routed tradition. Best wishes and success to all!"
Challenge Family CEO, Jort Vlam, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Challenge Israman to the Challenge Family global triathlon series. Israman has a rich history with a dedicated following and is an important economic and touristic asset for the region. We look forward to working closely with the team to elevate the event's global presence, opening doors for international athletes, and helping ensure an inclusive and dynamic future for triathlon in Israel."
Four-time Israman champion, Dan Alterman said he is looking forward to the 2024 Challenge Israman, "Israman has been one of my main goals in recent years. For the past four years I have won the title of Israeli champion over the long distance on one of the most challenging and beautiful courses in the world in this difficult race. It is a great pride and a huge satisfaction to compete in these conditions, alongside my family and alongside the great encouragement of many people. I can’t wait for the upcoming 2024 Challenge Israman, and to bring myself to the peak and to the limit of my ability."
For more information about Challenge Israman and registration details for the 25th anniversary race on 26 January 2024, please visit www.challenge-israman.com.