The Challenge Wānaka Sports Trust says it is confident the triathlon festival has a positive future ahead, despite financial concerns.

A statement from the Trust this week said entries for the 2025 Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Festival are tracking ahead of last year’s numbers, but event organisers are encouraging people to enter early to aid planning and help cover costs.

“Early sign-ups play a huge role in the success of events like this, giving our trustees the confidence to invest in creating the best possible experience for participants,” Challenge Wānaka Trustee and event director Jane Sharman said.

“Like any charitable trust that’s staging a major event in this current economic environment, it is difficult. Obtaining the required funds to deliver a world-class event – including entry fees from event participants – is challenging.”

Despite reports that the event made a loss last year and it was struggling to attract entries, the trust said it remained confident that the festival had a future “as it navigates the current economic climate and rising costs”.

Challenge Wānaka is funded by sponsorships (including naming sponsor Gallagher Insurance, and major sponsors Mitre10 Mega Wānaka, Puzzling World Wānaka, Racers Edge, Orca, RubyFresh Wetsuits, Kinisi Running, and Southern Land), grants (from Queenstown Lakes District Council, MBIE, Central Lakes Trust, Lion Foundation, Pub Charity, and COGS), donations from benefactors, and entry fees. 

The Trust said it is currently seeking more donations from benefactors who are keen to support the event.

“We are grateful for the enduring support of our community and especially thankful for the financial contributions of our partners and sponsors,” Jane said. 

Trust chair Tony Pfeiffer said the event management team is working hard and achieving entry targets ahead of schedule, which bodes well for the 19th annual race.

“We encourage athletes who haven’t signed up yet to enter before November 30, because from December 1 entries go up to their next price tier,” he said. “Entry fees are important for the 2025 event but also as we look ahead to celebrating Challenge Wānaka’s 20th event, in 2026.”

Jane said the events are “more than just races”.

“They're about bringing people together, staying active, and fostering connections within our community. They're vital to keeping us motivated and inspired. Everyone’s support makes a real difference in ensuring events like this continue to be part of our community for years to come.”

PHOTO: Supplied