Triathletes Race in Support of the USA Triathlon Foundation at 2026 Challenge Roth, Bibs Now Available for 2027
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by Kennedy Terry
More than 15 athletes proudly represented the USA Triathlon Foundation at the 2026 DATEV Challenge Roth on July 5, participating in one of the world's most iconic endurance events while raising awareness and support for the Foundation's mission to encourage youth participation, inspire pathways to access and inclusion, and ignite Olympic and Paralympic dreams.
The team included 28 USA Triathlon Foundation donors and Board of Trustees members, USA Triathlon staff, friends and family who traveled to Roth, Germany, to take part in the legendary race. Throughout the day, athletes racing in USA Triathlon Foundation kits stood out among the thousands of competitors, drawing enthusiastic chants of "USA! USA!" from spectators lining the course.
"This experience was incredibly special," said USA Triathlon Foundation Chief Development Officer, Jason Rizzi. "There are moments that remind you why you do what you do. Every day, I work to ensure our athletes, from young beginners to elite competitors, have the support they need to pursue their dreams. Watching so many USA Triathlon Foundation athletes pour their hearts into every mile, refusing to leave anything behind, was one of those moments. It wasn't just a race; it was the mission brought to life."
The USA Triathlon Foundation team also gathered in nearby Nuremberg before race day for a dinner celebrating the United States' 250th birthday, strengthening the camaraderie that has become a hallmark of the annual Challenge Roth experience. Six-time IRONMAN world champion, and USAT Foundation Ambassador, Mark Allen joined the group throughout the week, serving as a mentor, advisor and supporter as athletes prepared for race day.
First held in 1984, DATEV Challenge Roth has become one of the most celebrated races in ultra distance triathlon. Athletes complete a 3.8-kilometer swim in the Main-Danube Canal, a 180-kilometer bike ride that features the legendary Solar Hill climb, and a 26.2-mile run through the triathlon district of Roth. The event annually attracts athletes and spectators from around the world, creating one of the sport's most memorable atmospheres.
Athletes have the opportunity to race with and represent the USA Triathlon Foundation at 2027 DATEV Challenge Roth, scheduled for July 4, 2027.
While general entry into the event has already sold out, the USA Triathlon Foundation has secured 10 exclusive race entries that are available through Oct. 31. Athletes who join the Foundation team will receive a guaranteed race bib while helping support the Foundation's mission to encourage youth participation, inspire pathways to access and inclusion, and ignite Olympic and Paralympic dreams.
In addition to racing, Foundation participants will enjoy exclusive team activities throughout race week, including group dinners and training sessions leading up to race day.
For more information about securing a 2027 Challenge Roth bib through the USA Triathlon Foundation, email Augie Farwig at augie.farwig@usatriathlon.org.
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The USA Triathlon Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the charitable arm of USA Triathlon. The Foundation advances the sport’s mission by funding programs that expand access and create opportunity across the multisport community. Focused on three philanthropic priorities, (1) Encouraging Youth Participation (2) Inspiring Pathways to Access and Belonging (3) Igniting Olympic and Paralympic Dreams, the Foundation works to transform lives through sport by providing opportunities to swim, bike, and run. Since its founding in 2014, the Foundation has impacted thousands of lives by investing in individuals and organizations that are building a healthier, more inclusive United States through triathlon.
