Challenge Cape Town launched

The Challenge Family series of long distance triathlons today announced its expansion into South Africa with the launch of Challenge Cape Town, set to take place on 6 November 2011.

Cape Town is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The awesome bulk of Table Mountain, spectacular marine drives that cling to sheer mountains, the numerous sandy beaches and rivers, the enchantment of the fruit and wine regions, the rugged west coast together with a mild Mediterranean climate, make Cape Town an idyllic arena for an international triathlon.

The 226km course will take in much of the region’s most spectacular scenery. The 3.8km swim will take place at Granger Bay on the Atlantic Ocean with its stunning views of Robben Island. The 180km one-lap bike course promises to be one of the toughest in the Challenge series with over 2,000m of climbing through the Constantia winelands, including the famous Chapman’s Peak, along the coastal route as it skirts around Table Mountain and heads out to Khayelitsha. This is the largest and fastest growing township in South Africa and will allow athletes a taste of the true diversity of this region.

The marathon will start at Green Point Stadium precinct, head into the City Bowl before climbing up onto Kloof Road and down into Camps Bay with its white sandy beaches, fringed by palm trees, followed by a two loop run along the Atlantic Seaboard finishing at Green Point precinct next to the stadium.

The route is novel and testing based in the heart of Cape Town, in that it incorporates the cooler waters of Table Bay, the CBD, the wind of the Cape Flats, the entire Peninsula and the steep slopes of Table Mountain.

“Cape Town is often called the Mother City and for good reason,” said Grant Kunneke, managing director of Challenge South Africa and race director of Challenge Cape Town. “This city, which brings you the finest wine, never ending backdrops and rich history, is now adding what will be a new jewel in Cape Town’s sporting crown, Challenge Cape Town.’‘

“Cape Town was the obvious choice for Challenge Family to launch in South Africa,” said Challenge Family CEO, Felix Walchshöfer. “It’s one of the world’s most iconic cities and we are delighted that the city has welcomed us to create what is sure to be a memorable race for all. Where else can a course take in two oceans, the deep, rich African culture all against such a spectacular setting? We are incredibly proud to include Cape Town in the Challenge Family and we look forward to working with all the different communities to make sure it is a huge success for everyone.