More than 2,900 athletes will compete across a range of events at the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Festival this week (February 13-15).

The multi-day celebration of endurance sport draws thousands of athletes and spectators to the region, and this year’s race features a revamped swim, bike, and run course.

Christchurch-based professional triathlete Mike Phillips, who has competed at Challenge Wānaka five times, is one of the familiar faces returning to the Challenge Wānaka Half on Saturday.

Seasoned competitor Tom Somerville will also take on the new course this year, along with professional triathlete Michael Tong. New Zealand athlete Tom Moulai, a former NCAA track star, is another athlete eager to test himself on the updated course, and Australian athlete Bailey Powell, a former elite hockey player who recently moved to Wānaka, will make his debut at the event this year. 

Auckland-based triathlete Xander Marsh, former champion Craig Savage, and local triathlete Laurie Watson will also take on the challenges of the updated course.

The women's field at the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half showcases homegrown talent, with local standout Danielle Donaldson returning after winning the overall age-group title in 2024. 

Just a week after conquering the Kathmandu Coast to Coast and being crowned the 2025 World Multisport Champion, Deborah Lynch will make a quick transition from multisport to triathlon for the Challenge Wānaka Half.

Local pro triathlete Bec Clarke, who is still recovering from injury, will compete in a team, aiming to retain her title as the fastest female swimmer.

The triathlon festival will include more than 2,100 children competing in the Puzzling World Mini, Junior and Intermediate Challenges, the Mitre 10 Mega Adaptive Challenge, and Secondary Schools Challenge on Friday. 

PHOTO: Supplied