About This Event
Challenge Canberra 2026 brings triathlon, aquabike and sprint races to the iconic Black Mountain Peninsula. With lake swims, rolling road bike loops and scenic lake‑front runs, the event offers a mix of elite competition and beginner‑friendly waves, plus a Kids’ Aquathlon for young athletes.
Events & entry fees
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Sunday 22 November
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100 Distance Aquabike 2km swim / 80km bike5:53am$350
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Sprint Distance Triathlon - Drafting 750m swim / 20km bike / 5km run5:57am$170
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Olympic Distance Triathlon 1.5km swim / 40km bike / 10km run7am$210
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Olympic Distance Aquabike 1.5km swim / 40km bike7:05am$200
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100 Distance Triathlon Team 2km swim / 80km bike / 18km runStart TBA$505
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Duathlon 80km run / 18km bikeStart TBA$450
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Aquakids Kids 100m swim / 1km runStart TBA$10
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Kids' Aquathlon Kids 100m swim / 1km runStart TBATBA
Entry fees as listed on 14 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.
Quick Facts
- Date
- Sunday, 22 November 2026
- Terrain
- Road
- Location
- Black Mountain Peninsula, Lake Burley Griffin, Acton, Canberra, ACT
- Entry Fee
- From $10 (see registration for each distance)
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Start Time
- 5:50 am (first wave)
- Good for Beginners
- Yes – Sprint distance and Kids’ Aquathlon provide entry‑level options.
Event Details
Course Description
All races start with a mass‑start swim in the sheltered waters of Black Mountain Peninsula – a 2 km double‑lap for the 100 km events, a single 750 m lap for the sprint and a 1.5 km lap for the Olympic distance. After a short run to transition, athletes tackle a rolling 20 km bike loop that climbs gently up Hindmarsh before a fast descent back to the venue. The run leg follows flat, lakeside footpaths with a few gentle undulations, looping past Scrivener Dam and offering spectacular views of Canberra’s skyline. Aid stations are spaced roughly every 2 km, and the course is fully road‑based and spectator‑friendly.
Getting There
The race is held at Black Mountain Peninsula in Acton, Canberra. Parking and public‑transport options are provided on the official Challenge Canberra website. Arrive early to collect your timing chip and complete transition check‑in before the 4:30 am opening of the transition area.
Where to Stay
Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.
We may earn a small referral fee if you book through this map — you pay the same price.
Weather & What to Pack
November in Canberra is spring, with typical daytime highs around 23 °C and overnight lows near 10 °C. Expect mild sunshine and low humidity, but early mornings can be cool. Dress in layers – a light wetsuit or swim skin, a breathable jersey for the bike, and a warm jacket for the pre‑race period. Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle for the run.
Race details last updated 14 Oct 2026
Ready to run Challenge Canberra?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I register and what are the entry fees?
Register via the Challenge Canberra website. Fees depend on the distance: Kids’ Aquathlon $10, Sprint $170, Olympic Triathlon $210, 100 km Triathlon $460, etc. Check the entry‑fees page for the complete price list.
When should I arrive on race day?
Transition opens at 4:30 am and the first start is at 5:50 am. It’s recommended to arrive well before 4:30 am to collect your timing chip, complete the bike check‑in and warm up.
What gear is mandatory?
All participants must hold a Triathlon Australia membership or purchase a one‑day licence, wear an approved helmet, and have a timing chip. For the draft‑legal sprint, a Draft Legal Credential is required. See the athlete guide for full equipment rules.
Are there cut‑off times for the swim or bike?
Yes. The swim cut‑off is 1 hour after your start time. Sprint bike participants must be off the Lady Denman Drive by 11:15 am; similar cut‑offs apply to longer distances. Athletes missing cut‑offs are placed in the sag‑wagon.
Is there a race for children?
The Kids’ Aquathlon (100 m swim + 1 km run) is open to ages 7‑13 and costs $10. It provides a fun, introductory multi‑sport experience. Register on the website under the Kids’ Aquathlon category.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races, or an easy shakeout the day before this one.
- Burley Griffin parkrun Sat 8:00am · 1.1 km away · Yarralumla
- Mount Ainslie parkrun Sat 8:00am · 4.9 km away · Campbell
- Woden Town parkrun Sat 8:00am · 5.9 km away · Woden
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