Puerto Varas in southern Chile was today announced as the home of Challenge Family\u2019s latest middle distance triathlon. Challenge Puerto Varas\u00a0will take place on Sunday 20 March 2022 in the picturesque lakeside town with its iconic views.<\/p>\n
Puerto Varas is also known as \u2018la ciudad de las rosas\u2019 or \u2018the city of roses\u2019 and is one of the most beautiful cities in Chile. Settled by German immigrants in the 1850s, the German influence continues to this day, creating a unique combination with the South American culture. It is also a popular adventure tourism destination, and its spectacular landscapes make it the perfect setting for Challenge Family\u2019s latest race.<\/p>\n
“Organising and producing triathlons has been my passion for over 12 years with more than 200 events. But organising and directing Challenge Puerto Varas will no doubt be the highlight of my career,\u201d said race director, Juan Carlos Olavarr\u00eda. \u201cYou have to come and experience the course and the setting to realise just how remarkable it is, plus the community here in Puerto Varas will ensure athletes have a race experience to remember \u2013 the atmosphere will be amazing!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are looking forward to expanding our race offering for athletes in South America and what better destination than one of Chile\u2019s most popular holiday locations,\u201d said Challenge Family\u00a0CEO, Jort Vlam. \u201cThe terrain with its unforgettable views is perfect for a middle distance race and we are very fortunate to work with the experienced Juan Carlos and his team. I have no doubt Challenge Puerto Varas is set to become a classic on the South American triathlon circuit. It\u2019s also a really nice coincidence that, given Challenge Family\u2019s German roots, Puerto Varas also has a strong German heritage, even though it couldn\u2019t be further from Europe!\u201d<\/p>\n
Former Olympian and Chilean triathlete, Felipe Van de Wyngard, is looking forward to racing in March on his home turf. “Puerto Varas is a wonderful city for sports and tourism, for sure one of the best places I can think of in Chile for the inaugural Challenge Family race in Chile. I can’t wait to race there!” he said.<\/p>\n
His thoughts are echoed by former pro, Valentina Carvallo, \u201cChile has many unique and magical places that people aren\u2019t aware of and this is why Puerto Varas, the Llanquihue Lake, and the\u00a0magnificent volcanoes are a great setting,\u201d she said. \u201cI hope Challenge Family events leave a legacy that inspire more and more people to choose sport\u00a0as a lifestyle, especially in our region and communities.\u201d<\/p>\n