Triathlon in the family team: The Walchshöfers master the Challenge Roth!

Triathlon in the family team: The Walchshöfers master the Challenge Roth!

Roth, Deutschland - What is going on in the Triathlon District Roth? The "DATEV Challenge Roth" is just around the corner, and the whole team around the Walchshöfers is ready. On July 6, 2025, the largest long-distance triathlon in the world will bring hundreds of athletes to the start line. It is a challenge that swim from 3.8 km, 180 km cycling and 42.2 km running. The event-rich history of this event, which has been held since 1984, speaks for itself-with mythical swimming start on the Main-Danube channel, the legendary Solar Hill and the magical target party in the triathlon stadium, the occasion attracts numerous participants and spectators every year.

The organizers, Alice, Kathrin and Felix Walchshöfer are a committed team. Mother, daughter and son take care of all aspects of the challenge in her family business. As Kathrin Walchshöfer-Heleder reports, her collaboration is characterized by great familiarity. Of course there are also heated discussions every now and then, but they contribute to strengthening the common goals. Felix Walchshöfer illustrates: "The different perspectives are important", he adds that problems often arise when the roles are not clear. But the family has found a way to improve their communication weekly at the level of business management.

a strong common thing

The Walchshöferts are deeply rooted in triathlon and feel strongly connected to sport and the people who participate. "We feel good to do something good," says Alice Walchshöfer and describes how the common connection to the triathlon drives her. Initially, they faced challenges when Kathrin came directly from the university and Felix was still studying. But their grown cooperation and the clear structure have developed positively.

The challenge that you master is also reflected in the history of the triathlon in Germany. The first event took place in Essen in 1982 and laid the foundation for the development of this fascinating sport. Since then, the number of participants and events has increased explosively. In 1984 over 10,000 athletes were already involved in the competitions and numerous triathlon clubs were formed throughout Germany.

on success course

The DATEV Challenge Roth has experienced growth in international interest in recent years, a trend that is associated with the impressive achievements of athletes such as Magnus Ditlev and Anne Haug, who powdered the world's best times in 2024. The excitement for this competition can also be seen from the 7500 volunteers who do their best every year to offer the athletes and spectators an unforgettable experience. "There is something," says Felix when he points to the mood and anticipation that increases more every year.

This year everyone involved is more than ready for another spectacular triathlon. The Walchshöferts, supported by a passionate team, show how successful organization and family cooperation can go hand in hand. With every blow to the starting shot, a fascinating story will develop again that runs through the ups and downs of the triathlon and which captivates the participants and spectators alike.

Further information on the Challenge can be found on the official website of the Challenge Roth as well as on the pages of tri-mag and the wikimedia page on the history of the triathlon in Germany.