Costes, Watkinson to Defend Titles in 2017 Challenge Kanchanaburi-Thailand

By Wires October 20, 2017

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Antony Costes of France and Thanyapura Triathlon team member will defend his title at Challenge Kanchanaburi Sunday, fresh from his first iron-distance win in Barcelona. Kiwi Amelia Watkinson of BMC-Pro Etixx Triathlon team will also be back and a heavy favorite to win for the 2nd straight year. Watkinson has won her last 4 starts, 3 of which were in Asia (Krabi Triathlon, Ironman 70.3 Bintan, and Ironman 70.3 Philippines).

See the best images from last year’s race: Challenge Thailand (Kanchanaburi) – Best photos

Out to challenge Costes for the titles are Asian racing scene regulars Fredrik Croneberg (SWE), Mitch Robins (AUS) who won Bali International Tri last weekend, and 2-time world champion Michael Raelert. Completing the men’s Pro start list are, Evert Scheltinga (NZL), Alexander Polizzi (AUS), Johannes Moldan (GER), Tomasz Szala (POL).

In small women’s field, Parys Edwards (GBR), Imogen Simmonds (GBR) and Bouyer Moulin Isabella will be out playing spoiler to no.1 seed Watkinson.

Kanchanaburi is a town municipality in the west of Thailand and part of Kanchanaburi Province. The swim course will be in Srinakarin Dam, one of Kanchanaburi’s main attraction. The bike and run course are one of the challenging courses in Asia, a mix of false flats, long climbs, and technical downhills. This will keep the race interesting for the pro triathletes.