2016 Datev Challenge Roth day 1
There are still 4 days until the 2016 Datev Challenge Roth, but athletes, family members, industry folks and fans are arriving in big numbers in this famous Bavarian triathlon hot spot.
For Jennifer Fletcher the 2016 Dateve Challenge Roth will be her first full distance event, as until now she has opted to tackle half distance races.
This family with the very appropriate Roth last name is from Calgary, Canada and they are traveling for a month in Europe and a week here in Roth where 3 of them are racing here for the first time. From left to right are Michelle Roth (supporting), Sarah Roth (racing), Rob Roth (racing), Murray Roth (racing), Ruth Roth (supporting) and Paul Tarjan (supporting).
Michelle Vesterby did a session in the pool in Roth this morning and the sun was playing along nicely.
But there was not much time for small talk, Vesterby had a job to do.
Meanwhile her husband Claus Andersen patiently waited and occupied himself with social media.
Amy Ellett also came to the 2016 Datev Challenge Roth from Calgary, Canada and this is her first time here too
The Argi+ stand was one of the first booths to be set up, a full day early. Argi+ support triathletes Stefan Schmid, Kristin Möller and Lukas Krämer.
Björn, Lasse and Markus from 2XU Germany are not delivering pizzas here, they are setting up to sell a lot of wetsuits here in Roth.
Ace photographer Paul Phillips from Competitive Image is a Datev Challenge Roth regular.
Tom Hogan brought his whole family from Wexford, Ireland and this is his first time racing here. His wife on the other hand has started in Roth twice already.
This hospitality area within the Datev Challenge Roth compound will likely be busy starting tomorrow.
Wenke Kujala of Team Erdinger is also well connected to this popular German event.
Meanwhile in downtown Roth the local folks go about their business with the triathlon looming large. This small market is well worth visiting on Wednesdays.
Up the street meanwhile a small stand with fresh cherries had folks line up in droves.
In the finish arena a crew was working hard to set up what will be a 15×12 ft big screen.
A sea of green Datev Challenge Roth bags is waiting to be picked up by athletes over the next days.
Should you need any help with your bike before the race, the Radsport Fritz Buchstaller crew is ready for you, but do not show up on Wednesday afternoons.
Rain started in the afternoon, but that did not stop athletes from checking out the course.
Plus a little advice at the end. If you encounter a photographer snapping pics of you, do not wave, smile, and sit up. Pretend at least during that stretch to be aero and focused.
All images © Herbert Krabel / slowtwitch.com
