Datev Challenge Roth 2026

DATEV Challenge Roth is a full-distance triathlon held in Roth, Bavaria. It consists of a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike ride, and a 42.2 km marathon run. It is the largest long-distance triathlon globally, attracting approximately 5,000 athletes, supported by 7,500 volunteers, and watched by over 300,000 spectators along the course. Entry slots are typically filled within seconds, highlighting its significance in the sport. The event has been a fixture since 1984. Conditions generally favor fast times, with average air temperatures around 22°C, water temperatures near 23°C, and average wind speeds of about 12 kph. The swim takes place in the Main-Danube Canal. The bike course features smooth Bavarian roads with minimal elevation gain, approximately 164 metres. Solarer Berg, or Solar Hill, is a notable point on the course where spectators create a dense, noisy atmosphere as riders ascend. The run course is exceptionally flat, with only about 12 metres of elevation gain, contributing to the race's reputation for setting world records and personal bests. Roth also hosts a large triathlon expo, offers live athlete tracking via its event app, and concludes with a finish line celebration within the triathlon stadium, making the day enjoyable for spectators as well as participants.