Many of the world’s top professional athletes are preparing for The Championship, which begins this Sunday at 8:30 a.m. in Samorin, Slovakia. During the recent professional press conference, it became evident that the race will be intense, and no one will be holding back. All athletes are getting ready for what they describe as a very tough race.
Jort Vlam – Challenge Family CEO
Welcome to the X-bionic sphere, a venue made for championships. More and more people are having the opportunity to qualify for this event and join together in this high-profile race—it’s a joy to be here with like-minded people who enjoy the sport so much.
Michal Kraus – X-bionic CEO
We have quite a large family gathering here over the weekend with around 2,000 athletes!
Everyone has one thing in common: the joy of racing and pushing their limits, whether just starting out or seasoned athletes. Race hard, race safe with respect and remember to enjoy it!
India Lee (GBR)
Last year, I was under the radar, so that makes it a bit easier, but this year, I’m not under the radar! Training has gone well, and I’m looking forward to being out there.. I’m feeling pretty good compared to last year – I don’t know what to expect at the weekend.
Els Visser (NED)
It’s pretty cool that I’ve already had my best season. I’m really happy with how I recover after each race; I‘m in my best shape. I’m excited to be here in Samorin; it’s a race you definitely have to do once in a lifetime.
Caroline Pohle (GER)
Getting onto the podium is always the goal, but the field is good and strong; let’s see what happens on Sunday. After last year, I decided to make this race a highlight for 2024, so I’m really looking forward to Sunday’s race. It’s great to be back here and see many familiar faces.
Fenella Langridge (GBR)
It’s a really stacked field. It keeps growing every year, and triathlon is getting more competitive. Of course, I want to be at the top of the field, but there are some really good athletes working hard and fast. Hopefully, fourth time lucky!
Kaidi Kivioja (EST)
I’m enjoying long curse racing, a new challenge I’m enjoying now. I always wanted to do this race and am really looking forward to Sunday.
Pieter Heemeryck (BEL)
This weekend is all about getting the top spot I’m in good shape and looking forward to the race – it’s my fifth time here, and for me, it’s like coming home.
Frederic Funk (GER)
I’m in good shape, especially on the bike – I think the race on Sunday will suit me. I prefer the hills, but I’m good at this course. I’ve done a lot of preparation, and I expected another great field here; as it is every year. That’s why it’s The Championship. It’s going to be exciting and close racing against some of the best in the world.
Kyle Smith (NZL)
I love coming back here to x-bionic Sphere – it’s an amazing vibe, and it’s an amazing venue. Heat is definitely my Achilles heel. I was nervous going into Singapore because of this so I’m looking forward to a cooler canal and the lower temperatures early in the morning on the bike.
Rico Bogen (GER)
It’s crazy how much my life has changed in two years; I’m still only 23. Two years ago, I switched to pro after winning my age group by over 15 minutes—no one expected me to win the world championships, and now I’m here at The Championship, and I’m looking forward to racing.
Mark Dubrick (USA)
I’m excited to face this field and see how I can do here. This hotel, the Challenge Family, has treated us well, and we are already looking forward to returning.
The Championship Press Conference 2024
