So this is meant to be the best Long Distance event i am told so with a quick trigger finger i managed to secure a slot for 2016. 

Admin

There is not allot of accomodation available in Roth so most are accomodated in Nuremburg and we were no different so this was never going to be the most straight forward race for logistics. A split transition was also going to be a pain (brought the wife to be a driver), Registration in the large race village was easy enough and the race briefing was a fantastic atmosphere. Having the pasta party 2 days before also was a great thing so u can relax on the Saturday night as you are unlikely to be staying in Roth. Parking on race morning was straight forward and only a short walk across the bridge.

Swim

Oh my god the banks of the canal are lined with people, its unbelievable. The swim is really straight forward, one long loop. The biggest problem is if you put down your finish time honestly but are a decent swimmer then there is a chance you will be swimming into/over & around lots of swimmers. I put down a 11hr finish but was then swimming in the earlier starters. Not great for them or me. Just a point, they may have changed it.

Bike 

Its a 2 lap bike course. Its not flat so dont expect it it be but the roads are smooth and yu carry your speed. Its a great bike course and you can settle into a good pace. There is loads of support on the course through the towns and even once the Pros are finished the bike there were still a good crowd. The Solar is EPIC :) Sit up & enjoy, closest we will get to the Tour de France. 

Run

The run was 2 loops (Now 1 for 2017) along the canal path with a few branches in into some villages, again great support and the music and guys/girls on the mic's keep you moving. A good run course for the body though i found the long drag on the canal punishing on the mind. Running into the stadium is awesome such great support.

Post Race

Great after race feed (If you can eat), showers always welcome. The finish line party & fire works are fantastic and there is a large selection of food trucks if you have an appetite. The area around the finish line is great but you have to get your bike which is a small walk (not welcome) and then if it wasnt for having a driver then its a shuttle back to get your car then a drive back to Nuremburg so that needs to be thought about.

Challenge Roth is everything it ws hyped to be and the logistical issues can be negated with a bit of planning. What a great race