Pro athletes can’t wait to race The Championship: ‘A race you definitely have to do once in a lifetime’

While The Championship – Challenge Family’s most important Middle Distance race – takes place next Sunday, the press conference with some of the most high-profile professional athletes was held today. Below we list some of their quotes:

India Lee (GBR)
Last year, I was under the radar, so that makes it a bit easier, but this year, I’m not under the radar! Training has gone well, and I’m looking forward to being out there.. I’m feeling pretty good compared to last year – I don’t know what to expect at the weekend.

Els Visser (NED)
It’s pretty cool that I’ve already had my best season. I’m really happy with how I recover after each race; I‘m in my best shape. I’m excited to be here in Samorin; it’s a race you definitely have to do once in a lifetime.

Caroline Pohle (GER)
Getting onto the podium is always the goal, but the field is good and strong; let’s see what happens on Sunday. After last year, I decided to make this race a highlight for 2024, so I’m really looking forward to Sunday’s race. It’s great to be back here and see many familiar faces.

Fenella Langridge (GBR)
It’s a really stacked field. It keeps growing every year, and triathlon is getting more competitive. Of course, I want to be at the top of the field, but there are some really good athletes working hard and fast. Hopefully, fourth time lucky!

Kaidi Kivioja (EST)
I’m enjoying long course racing, a new challenge I’m enjoying now. I always wanted to do this race and am really looking forward to Sunday.

Pieter Heemeryck (BEL)
This weekend is all about getting the top spot. I’m in good shape and looking forward to the race – it’s my fifth time here, and for me, it’s like coming home.

Frederic Funk (GER)
I’m in good shape, especially on the bike – I think the race on Sunday will suit me. I prefer the hills, but I’m good at this course. I’ve done a lot of preparation, and I expected another great field here; as it is every year. That’s why it’s The Championship. It’s going to be exciting and close racing against some of the best in the world.

Kyle Smith (NZL)
I love coming back here to x-bionic Sphere – it’s an amazing vibe, and it’s an amazing venue. Heat is definitely my Achilles heel. I was nervous going into Singapore because of this so I’m looking forward to a cooler canal and the lower temperatures early in the morning on the bike.

Rico Bogen (GER)
It’s crazy how much my life has changed in two years; I’m still only 23. Two years ago, I switched to pro after winning my age group by over 15 minutes—no one expected me to win the world championships, and now I’m here at The Championship, and I’m looking forward to racing.

Mark Dubrick (USA)
I’m excited to face this field and see how I can do here. This hotel, the Challenge Family, has treated us well, and we are already looking forward to returning.