SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 Brings Long Distance Triathlon Back to Québec
A highly anticipated return, recognized by the world’s most iconic triathlon: DATEV Challenge Roth
Québec City, Monday June 16 2025 – SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 will mark the long-awaited return of long distance triathlon to the province of Québec on 28 June 2026, after a three-year hiatus. Thanks to an exclusive partnership with the prestigious DATEV Challenge Roth – the landmark event on the international triathlon circuit held annually in Germany – Québec City will host its first-ever long distance race, right in the heart of downtown.
With this strategic alliance with DATEV Challenge Roth and the launch of its long distance in 2026, SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 is setting a new benchmark as the most prestigious event in Canada.
Known for drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators and reaching full capacity within seconds each year, DATEV Challenge Roth is offering an exclusive benefit to the first 200 registrants of the Québec long distance event: a guaranteed spot at the 2027 edition of Roth. An unprecedented opportunity for endurance sport enthusiasts.
The partnership was officially announced in the presence of Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City, Félix Walchshöfer, CEO of DATEV Challenge Roth, Dominique Piché, Executive Producer of SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 and Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family – a milestone moment for the global triathlon community.
“We are thrilled to see Challenge Family bring long distance triathlon to the doorstep of North American athletes with SAIL Challenge Québec,” stated Felix Walchshöfer. “As the birthplace of triathlon with participants from over 100 nations, we aim to build a bridge between this exciting new race and our legendary event in Roth — which is why we’re offering 200 exclusive slots to Québec athletes. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Roth start line, cheered on by over 300,000 fans and supported by 7,500 volunteers.”
“Bringing long distance triathlon back to Québec alongside a partner as iconic as Challenge Roth is a dream come true,” said Dominique Piché, Executive Producer of the event. “SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 is entering a new phase, with a clear ambition: to deliver an experience on par with the world’s greatest races. It’s a significant step forward for our community, our city, and for all endurance sport enthusiasts.”
“The inaugural SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 set a new standard for triathlon in Canada, making history with its iconic race through the heart of Québec City,” said Jort Vlam, CEO of Challenge Family. “Building on that success to bring the ultimate distance in collaboration with DATEV Challenge Roth, the event where Challenge Family began, is a unique opportunity for the Canadian triathlon community. Thanks to Felix and his team, athletes crossing the red carpet in Québec now begin their road to Roth. Challenge Family looks forward to working with the City of Québec and Dominique to welcome athletes not just from North America, but from all over the world, to compete in this unrivalled setting.”
Registration for 2026 opens tomorrow: 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42.2 km run
Athletes eager to be part of this historic first edition can register as of tomorrow, 17 June at 10:00am, for the event on 28 June 2026. They will have a full year to prepare for one of the greatest challenges in endurance sports: a 3.8 km swim in the Bassin Louise, 180 km bike ride on the Dufferin-Montmorency Highway, and a full 42.2 km marathon run along the Saint-Charles River, through the Old Port and finishing in the heart of the city.
Upcoming Events
The second edition of SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 will take place from June 27 to 29, 2025, at Espace Quatre Cents. Athletes will compete in the Sprint (C25), Olympic (A51), and Half Long distance (P113) events. The 226 km long distance race will officially be added to the event programme as of the 2026 edition, scheduled from June 26 to 28.
Partner Quotes
“The Capitale-Nationale region continues to affirm its status as a leading global sports destination. Hosting a long distance triathlon of this magnitude proves our ability to stand among the world’s top host cities. Through sport, our region shines, unites communities, and attracts top talent from here and abroad.”
— Jonatan Julien, Minister Responsible for the Capitale-Nationale Region
“Hosting a long distance triathlon of this scale in Québec, in partnership with such a prestigious organization as DATEV Challenge Roth, marks a new chapter in our ambition to showcase our city on the international stage. It’s excellent news for our residents, our athletes, and the broader sports community.”
— Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City
“Offering a spectacular venue like the Port of Québec Oasis for a high-profile event such as SAIL Challenge Québec is a tremendous source of pride. It reflects our global outlook and our commitment to promoting our region. Welcoming world-class athletes in such a unique setting showcases the full potential of Québec as a premier sport and maritime destination.”
— Olga Farman, President and CEO, Port of Québec
“For nearly 50 years, SAIL has been inspiring Quebecers and Canadians to push their limits and fully embrace their passion for the outdoors. We are extremely proud to be part of this world-class triathlon. With the addition of the long distance format, SAIL Challenge Québec powered by Argon 18 becomes a powerful symbol of commitment, perseverance, and excellence for our community and for the City of Québec.”
— Isabelle Lemay, President and CEO, SAIL
“We’ve been proud partners of Challenge Québec since the beginning. Right from its first edition, the event established itself as a key moment in Québec’s triathlon calendar. We are thrilled to continue this incredible journey.”
— Jean-François Leclair, Marketing Director, Argon 18
“The arrival of a Challenge Family long distance race in Québec is great news for our military athletes. It’s a chance to push our limits, compete with the best, and showcase the Canadian Armed Forces. We’re proud to be part of this journey from day one.”
— Pierre-Vincent Daigle, representative of the Canadian Armed Forces triathlon team
About DATEV Challenge Roth
Over 3,500 individual athletes and 700 relay teams take part in the world’s largest long distance triathlon. Whether as a competitor, a spectator lining the course, or one of 7,500 volunteers, dreams come true in Roth. The course includes a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, and 42.2 km run through the Roth triathlon region. The race is filled with emotion, from the iconic swim start in the Main-Danube Canal to the legendary Solar Hill climb and the unforgettable finish line party inside the stadium. The Roth triathlon festival has welcomed athletes from around the world since 1984.
About Challenge Family
Challenge Family offers more than 30 long- and middle-distance triathlon events in 27 countries across the globe. With breathtaking courses in some of the world’s most iconic destinations, each Challenge Family race is unique. Focused on delivering an unforgettable race experience for athletes of all ages and skill levels, Challenge Family events capture the excitement and emotion of triathlon for athletes, fans, families, and supporters alike.
www.challengefamily.com
Germany is calling – will you pick up?
If we wanted to put it simply, we’d say that the Datev Challenge Roth is the ultimate bucket list item for triathletes – but it wouldn’t fully do it justice. It’s also the kind of event that sells out in 40 seconds, and that should tell you everything you need to know. There’s something truly extraordinary about it.
The setting? Multifaceted roads, a fast course and legendary places. The people? Cheering for you from start to finish. The family? Tightly-knit from having lived through this incredible experience together. The champions? Just think back to the Challenge Roth of June 25, 2023, where Magnus Ditlev defended his title in a new world best time of 7:24:40 and Daniela Ryf beat the 12 year old world best time of Chrissie Wellington by almost ten minutes.
So… how would you feel about a chance to take part in this mythical challenge and having your name called at the Datev Challenge Roth finish line?
Here’s your once-in-a-lifetime chance!
Athletes who have signed up to the Sail Challenge Cap Quebec powered by Argon 18 into the P113 km mid-long-distance are eligible to win one of 20 spots to participate in the 2025 Datev Challenge Roth triathlon. All you have to do is sign up to the Port de Québec lottery at the athlete check-in.
After the closing ceremony on June 29th, we’ll be treating you to a preview of the Roth experience. Everyone will be holding their breath as 20 names will be picked at random – regardless of time or performance. We’ll be rooting for you. If your name is picked, you’ll be accompanied to make your payment and secure your spot while being awarded a Port de Québec participation certificate – and then, Roth will be yours.
Welcome to the biggest long-distance triathlon in the world!
Dreams come true in the triathlon dream factory. The sports festival in the triathlon stronghold has been home to triathletes from all over the world since 1984. Picture it: 3.8 km of swimming, 180 km of cycling and 42.2 km of running, all through Roth bei Nürnberg, in the heart of Bavaria.
Emotions run high and goose bumps are guaranteed, from the mythical swim start at the Main-Danube Canal, to the legendary Solar Hill, and all the way to the magical finish line party in the triathlon stadium.
our partner POrt de québec
Port de Québec is glad to offer you 20 spots and the incredible opportunity to participate in the mythical 2025 Datev Challenge in Roth, Germany.
