Challenge Family’s Asia expansion continues with announcement of Challenge Jeju, Korea

CHALLENGE FAMILY‘s growth in Asia continued today with the announcement of the half distance CHALLENGE JEJU on the popular Jeju Island in Korea on 25 September.

Jeju Island is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty with its beautiful beaches and lush volcanic landcapes. Also known as ‘Island of the Gods’, Jeju is a UNESCO World Heritage Area and was voted one of the new Seven Wonders of Nature.

The 113km course makes the most of the island’s natural beauty with the single lap 1.9km swim course off Haebichi Beach with its calm blue waters and beautiful white sand.

The 90km bike course takes in views of the iconic Mount Hallasan and many of Jeju’s over 300 volcanic cones. Another highlight is the beautiful kilometre-long tree tunnel as the course climbs the lower slopes of Mt Hallasan National Park.

The undulating run features breathtaking ocean views, including Seongsan Ilchulbong, a dramatic cratered volcanic cone perched out on its own little peninsula before finishing on the shores of Haebichi Beach.

“Jeju Island is made for triathlon with its warm climate, smooth roads, clear water and excellent facilities. We’re delighted to share this well-kept secret with athletes from around the world,” said Challenge Family Asia-Pacific CEO, Marcus Altmann. “The course is simply stunning and athletes will enjoy a high quality race combined with the unique Korean culture and hospitality.”

Jeju Island is already a favourite training location of the world’s top athletes, including Chrissie Wellington, Daniela Ryf and Nicola Spirig.

Brett Sutton, Head coach of Trisutto said “I  am so excited to find out Jeju is putting on a Challenge race in 2016. It’s a wonderful venue. We’ve held five training camps there.  So all I have to say to the triathlon public is they have the best venue in the world to hold the race. Our team will be there in September for our training camp and we are looking forward to being there racing with you.”

Korea’s largest holiday island features plenty of sights and things to do with its lava tube caves, many beaches, ancient Korean cultural sites and hiking in the national park plus great shopping, hotels and restaurants.