RMTC Experiences Challenge Roth

by Khem Suthiwan
When you ask most triathletes what race is on their bucket list, the IRONMAN World Championships in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii usually come to mind. But there is another race that is almost as coveted as Kona. Challenge Roth in Munich, Germany attracts the world’s best triathletes for many reasons. The amazing energy from spectators, beautiful scenery along the course, professional athlete line-up that rivals the IMWC, all together provides a world-class racing experience.
This year’s race attracted a mighty contingent of athletes from Colorado. Representing various Colorado racing teams with all being Rocky Mountain Triathlon Club members were Jay Coon, Ted Dunst, Michelle Hildebrand, Bill Ludington, Michelle Morovitz, and David Poole.
Some of the notable memories our Coloradans had from the race included:
1. Classical music was played to thousands of spectators that lined the swim course which was held in a canal.
2. Hot air balloons were everywhere at the swim start and there was a canon start for each wave.
3. Transitions and post-race showers were unisex…enough said!
4. Beer gardens lined the run course through small German towns…and yes, beer was consumed by athletes along the way!
5. There was a complete buffet of food every 2km on the run.
6. Riding up Solar Berg Hill was more than epic. You couldn’t see the road for the longest time and then people miraculously started to part.
7. Hup! Hup! Hup! That’s the German cheer!
8. BEST post-race food EVER including Erdinger beer (non-alcoholic). No need to get dehydrated athletes drunk! (I’m sure Colorado athletes beg to differ!)
9. Fireworks ended the night!
As if this race isn’t already epic – Jan Frodeno, the reigning IRONMAN World Champion finished in 7 hours and 35 minutes! Ridiculously amazing!! Big congrats to all our Coloradans who finished Challenge Roth!