Challenge-Family is ready to welcome you “aboard the most unique experience in the world of triathlon!”
Challenge Sir Bani Yas, “held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamden Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Rulers Representative in Al Dhafra Region,” certainly promises to be a one-of-a-kind event. It will take place on on Sir Bani Yes Island in the Arabian Gulf near Abu Dhabi. Athletes competing in the full- and half-distance events, along with their family and friends, will all stay on a luxury all-inclusive cruise ship that will take them from Abu Dhabi to the island, then serve as their accommodation through race weekend.
“The cruise ship not only offers luxury accommodation options, but endless facilities and activities to maximize the experience, with numerous restaurants, a wellness centre, pool and sunbathing deck and entertainment programs the whole family can enjoy.”
The 1.9- and 3.8 km swim courses both start and finish at the Terminal Beach on the island in calm waters off the southeast corner of the island. The 90- and 180-km bike rides follow the island ring road circuit and offer some climbing (up to 100 m above sea level) along the inter-connecting roads. Along the way athletes will enjoy beautiful views and the chance to take in some of the wildlife that abounds – Sir Bani Yas Island is “one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves, home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs.” The day finishes off with a 21- or 42-km flat, coastal run through the race village with views of the Arabian Gulf and natural landscape.
The weather for race day (April 5, 2025) is expected to see temperatures between 26 and 29 degrees.
For more information on the race, click here.
The post There’s destination races … and then there’s Challenge Sir Bani Yas in Abu Dhabi appeared first on Triathlon Magazine Canada.