Challenge Kraichgau will feature a high quality field of triathletes at the European Championships on 10 June 2012. After a strong 2011, Andreas Raelert will return to Kraichgau. The defending champion will face two tough competitors on the way to the European Championship title. On the one hand there is the local hero Sebastian Kienle from Karlsruhe. Kienle is aiming to repeat his 2009 victory. On the other is Timo Bracht, one of the most successful triathletes in recent years from Germany. Bracht knows Kraichgau well from numerous training runs. He can expect strong support from his home village Eberbach only 40km away.

In the women’s field an exciting race is expected. Last year's runner-up Julia Gajer, (nee Wagner), is in her second year as a pro. She will be one of the hot contenders for European title. Since Challenge Roth 2011 Gajer has been one of the fastest German athletes on long-distance course. Also lining up is Yvette Grice from Great Britain, finishing fifth at last year's Kraichgau. After her victory in Challenge Henley-on-Thames, Grice is one to keep an eye on but perhaps the biggest threat will come from eight time iron distance champion, Gina Crawford of New Zealand.

With more than 3000 participants Challenge Kraichgau is one of the most popular races in Germany over the 1,9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run distance. Challenge Kraichgau takes place on 10 June 2012 and is part of the world-wide Challenge -Family.

The Challenge Family global series of long distance triathlons features 12 races throughout Europe and Australasia, including the world’s largest iron distance event, Challenge Roth in Germany. Challenge races are known for their excellent athlete race experience to the athletes and commitment to the communities in which they take place. For further information, visit www.challenge-family.com or www.facebook.com/ChallengeFamily or follow us on Twitter @Challenge_Famil