Lotto Challenge Gdansk is set to return with its spectacular middle-distance race, drawing international athletes from around the globe to the beautiful Baltic coast this Sunday. The 2024 edition of Challenge Gdansk boasts a strong international field featuring top-tier professional athletes from various countries.
In the men’s pro field, the returning champion Kacper Stepniak (POL), who finished 4th at The Championships in Samorin, will face strong competition from Ognjen Stojanovic (SRB), runner-up at both Challenge Cesenatico and Challenge Gallipoli. Also contending is Marcel Bolbat (GER), who finished third last year, Kurt Mcdonald (AUS), second at Challenge Salou, and Jesper Svensson (SWE), who placed second at Challenge Gunsan-Saemangeum.
In the women’s pro field, Rosie Weston (GBR), who recently secured third place at Challenge Wales, will compete alongside Julia Skala (GER). Additionally, Sarissa de Vries (NED), the 2021 winner, will make a highly anticipated return to racing after becoming a mother.
Challenge Gdansk begins with a swim in the Baltic Sea from the shores of Gdansk Beach. The bike course features three fast laps, including views of the Energa Stadion and a tunnel under the Vistula River. The running course follows the scenic Gdansk Beach, culminating in a spectacular finish at the Gdansk Pier. The race culminates in a spectacular finish at the Gdansk Pier, where athletes will cross the finish line to the cheers of an enthusiastic crowd.
All professional athletes will be racing for the win and Challenge Family World Bonus points, with Svensson and Stoyanovic currently ranked second and third, respectively. All athletes who place in the top six in their category will qualify for The Championship 2025.
The start gun goes off at 8:00 a.m. for men and 8:02 a.m. for women on Sunday, 16 June. Live updates and timing are available at www.challenge-family.live. For further information, visit www.challenge-poland.com.