The Pro Triathlete Organization (PTO) has announced the fourth event on this year’s PTO Tour after acquiring the Challenge London Triathlon.
The race, which was acquired from the Challenge family, has a 20-year tradition in the sport and includes a closed road course that takes place entirely in central London.
In 2024, the 100km distance will be held in London over the weekend of June 27-28, with the world’s top pros competing in the British capital.
Great addition to the calendar
The 2024 Tour looks set to showcase the sport’s best athletes on the biggest stage, with PTO races in Singapore and Ibiza bolstered by the announcement of events in Las Vegas and London.
PTO CEO Sam Renouf, speaking on behalf of the organization after the announcement, said the decision to hold the event in London was a great opportunity to bring sport to some of the world’s most iconic cities. He said that it is in line with the group’s spirit of moving forward.
“Our ambition to stage spectacular PTO Tour races in the heart of iconic cities around the world was something we were very clear about and this race in central London lives up to that standard. It’s a perfect fit. That’s why we’re delighted to announce our acquisition and plans for the race to be part of the PTO Tour in 2024.
“Since the creation of the PTO, we have had a close partnership with the Challenge family and have shared ideals and ambitions to grow the sport. Looking at its history, we know this is a world-class event. Our ambition is to continue the great work that Challenge has started and restore its status as one of the world’s largest events.”
“Great venue for triathlons.”
Two athletes who shared their enthusiasm for the London event were current Ironman World Champions Sam Laidlaw and Lucy Charles Barkley, with 2023 Challenge London winner Laidlaw heaping praise on the race.
“Last year’s race was a great event. The course, crowd and organization were all top class, so I think the PTO Tour is a great fit here and can take it to the next level.”
Born and raised in London, the opportunity to race in his home city was huge for Charles Barkley, and the Kona winner declared London a great venue for the race.
“I am so excited to hear that the PTO Tour is coming to my home city. I live in London and the race will be held just around the corner from where we live and train. I’ve raced there a few times before and it’s a great venue for triathlons.”