Challenge Cesenatico is a triathlon weekend on Italy’s Adriatic coast, centered in the seaside town of Cesenatico in Emilia-Romagna. The primary middle-distance event involves a 1.9 km sea swim, a 90 km bike course, and a 21.1 km run. Shorter sprint and junior races are available for less experienced athletes and younger participants.
The race begins with a sea swim, followed by a bike course for middle-distance competitors that ventures into the hills behind the coast, deviating from a completely flat route. The run is mostly flat, featuring minimal elevation changes and a beachfront path alongside spectators. Cesenatico offers more than just a resort setting: its Porto Canale was designed by Leonardo da Vinci, old unfurled sails are displayed along the canal, and the town retains the character of an old fishing village with colourful houses. The region also has a strong cycling history, having hosted a Tour de France stage, making the bike leg a fitting part of the event.