One of the biggest events of the triathlon season, Challenge Roth is famous for delivering an unbeatable atmosphere with world class professional fields every single year.
Set to take place this year on Sunday July 7, the race organizers today announced a major star who will be fighting for the win in the women’s race.
Unveiling Laura Philipp as a starter in 2024, last year’s third place finisher will hope to use the home crowd to her advantage as she headlines a stellar field.
Eyes on the prize
After a brilliant season in 2023 which saw her finish third at the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii alongside her podium in Roth, Philipp is now one of the biggest stars in the sport.
With 23 professional wins to her name, the 36-year-old is a clinical racer. Speaking after the announcement, Philipp outlined her intentions to add a title in Roth to her resume.
“Roth is one of two highlighted races of the season for me, which will be my main focus. My goal is to win Roth. After a first year of learning in Roth, I now want to perform even better.
“My team and I have discussed all the details and drawn up a plan for a successful race. The unique atmosphere in 2023 has inspired me so much that I definitely want to be at the start with a top performance in 2024.”
Flying the flag for Germany
Whilst the whole field is yet to be announced, Philipp will already be sizing up the opponents who have been confirmed for Roth, with Sweden’s Lisa Norden a leading contender.
Last year, the 2012 Olympic silver medalist finished in fifth, almost twenty minutes behind Philipp, but had close to a five minute advantage over the German heading out on to the run.
This year, it is again likely that Philipp will be left to chase the lead after the swim-bike, with the impact of strong swimmers such as Lottie Lucas of the UAE undoubtedly a consideration.
Racing to keep up: Is social media making us train harder?
