Henning, Ledesma take Fuerteventura

A strong pro field took on the inaugural Playitas Challenge Fuerteventura today. In a closely fought battle throughout the race between Rasmus Henning (DEN), Martin Jensen (DEN) and Stephen Bayliss (GBR) it was Henning who took out the title in 4:12:59, just three seconds ahead of Jensen and 34 seconds ahead of Bayliss.

"It's certainly not the fastest course with all the hills and wind on both the bike and the run and we had to fight the elements today as expected. Those are the conditions on this island and I'm used to it. Now I look forward to visit Denmark and family and friends the next weeks," said Henning.

The women's race was also close with local athlete and Spanish Long Distance Champion Eva Ledesma finally breaking away on the run to take first place in 4:47:14, two minutes ahead of Erika Csomor (HUN) who came in in 4:49:19. Edith Niederfriniger (ITA) rounded out the podium in 4:53:28.

Playitas Challenge Fuertventura is the latest event in the global Challenge Family series of triathlons that features 13 full and half distance races across three continents.

Men's Results
1. Rasmus Henning (DEN) 4:12:59
2. Martin Jensen (DEN) 4:14:01
3. Stephen Bayliss (GBR) 4:14:33
4. Jonas Djurback (SWE) 4:15:59
5. Daniel Halksworth (GBR) 4:16:18

Women's Results
1. Eva Ledesma (SPA 4:47:14
2. Erika Csomor (HUN) 4:49:19
3. Edith Niederfiniger (ITA) 4:53:28
4. Emma Ruth Smith (GBR) 4:57:35
5. Sonja Jaasveld (NED) 5:05:35