The 20th anniversary of the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Festival of Triathlon delivered world-class racing, emotional moments and a fitting celebration of two decades of endurance sport in New Zealand.

More than 3,100 athletes took part across three days of racing, with 376 athletes — including 22 professionals — lining up for the half distance triathlon event in what proved to be one of the most exciting editions in the race’s history.

The day began with a brisk 10°C start and a choppy 1.9km swim in Lake Wānaka.

In the men’s field, rising Kiwi talent Ivan Abele and Robert Huisman set the tone early, exiting the water first in 23:38. 

Fresh off a strong performance in Tauranga, Ivan showed he belongs at the front of New Zealand’s next generation of professional triathletes. He rode assertively to complete the 90km bike in 2:07:38, holding the lead into T2 as the race favourites Mike Phillips and Frederic Funk closed in behind him. 

Mike Phillips and Frederic Funk applied pressure, but it was Jack Moody — fourth off the bike — who once again demonstrated why he is one of New Zealand’s most complete middle-distance athletes.

Jack, who has raced Challenge Wānaka since the very beginning of his professional career, delivered a trademark run performance along the scenic but demanding lakefront course. He reeled in Ivan, Frederic, and Mike, thrilling spectators as the race unfolded in front of a buzzing 20th anniversary crowd.

“It’s pretty special to get a win here again — it’s never easy,” Jack said. 

“The swim was slower than expected, it was just cold. The bike course was pretty honest. I was surprised I was able to stay in touch with a few of the powerhouses. When I started the run I knew I’d ridden a bit too hard — it took me about a lap to find my feet. I was very happy to get the win.”

Jack crossed the finish line in 3:51:23 to claim the 2026 title, followed by Mike Phillips (NZL) in 3:54:11 and Frederic Funk (GER) in 3:54:37.

The women’s race was equally gripping.

Wānaka local Rebecca Clarke led decisively out of the water (25:06) and controlled much of the race, with Danielle Donaldson (NZL) and Gabrielle Lumkes (USA) close behind. Rebecca maintained her advantage through the bike, entering T2 still in command.

Women winners on the podium. PHOTO: Diego Belli

Tamara Jewett (CAN) began the run in fifth place, having battled illness throughout race week. But the Canadian is known for her run strength, and the lakefront course became her stage.

Gradually moving through the field, Tamara closed the gap and in a dramatic final stretch set a new course record of 1.21:26 held since 2020. She overtook Gabrielle and then Rebecca to claim victory in 4:29:39 — just over a minute ahead of Rebecca (4:30:43), with Gabrielle third in 4:30:46.

“I’ve been sick all week, so when I came off the bike I was around fifth place and really thought the podium was out of sight,” Tamara said. 

“I was not feeling great — I was gritting my teeth and getting through it.

“The course is gorgeous — one of the most beautiful run courses I’ve ever been on. None of it is fast, with punchy hills and chip seal and gravel. Being able to build momentum was a great confidence boost — I’m proud I just kept working it.”

In a milestone moment for Challenge Wānaka, Oliver Pritchard (GBR) made his debut as the world’s first professional deaf triathlete, finishing the course in 4:16:09.

“The 2026 Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Festival of Triathlon has been a huge success,” event director Jane Sharman said.

“It’s been incredibly special to reflect on 20 years of Challenge Wānaka — how it’s grown from humble beginnings in 2007 to what it is today.

“A highlight has been reconnecting with some of the original athletes, watching the pros put on a show, and seeing the next generation — like Ivan — step up and race with courage.”