After a successful first year, the Challenge Wānaka Cross Triathlon and Duathlon have become must-do events.

Both events have been confirmed as part of the Tri NZ Suzuki Series and they are qualifying events for the World Triathlon Multisports Championships.

"Challenge Wānaka is an iconic date on the New Zealand triathlon calendar and having the Suzuki NZ Cross Triathlon Championships and Suzuki NZ Cross Duathlon Championships incorporated just adds more value and significance to an already epic event," Tri NZ CEO Pete De Wet said. 

"The 2024 World Triathlon Multisport Championships are going to be a fantastic occasion and we anticipate some keen racing in and around the awe-inspiring Glendhu Mountain Bike as our epic age groupers aim for Townsville."

Those who qualify for the World Triathlon Multisports Championships at the local event will get the chance to take part in the 12-day extravaganza that will run from August 14-25 2024 in Townsville, Australia.

Pete said he expected the competition at the qualifying events (taking place on Saturday February 17) to be stiff.

The event includes a 1,500m swim (triathlon event only), followed by a 32km bike ride, and finishing with a 10.5km trail run - all at Glendhu Bay.

A third event which has been confirmed as a qualifier for the World Triathlon Multisports Championships, the Aquabike, will also take place on the same day. 

It consists of a 3km swim in Glendhu Bay followed by a stunning 120km road bike.

“It is incredibly exciting to have been chosen as a qualifier for the World Championships again,” Challenge Wānaka trust and event director Jane Sharman said.

“There are a lot of incredible mountain bikers in the area and so we are guaranteed a fantastic race with athletes battling it out for a much-coveted spot at the World Champs.”

The Integrity Homes Challenge Wānaka Festival will be held from February 15-17, 2024, at Glendhu Bay. 

PHOTO: Supplied