One of New Zealand’s most challenging multisport endurance events returns to Wanaka in January 2019 with an exceptional line up of athletes vying for top honors.

Red Bull Defiance, designed by world champion Kiwi multisporter and Ironman Braden Currie, is a gutsy two-day adventure race that sees teams competing at the highest level of the sport.

“There isn’t anything else quite like this on the multisport calendar which makes the event enormously popular.The combination of kayaking, mountain biking and trail running over two days through Wanaka’s mountains and high-country stations is compelling,” says Red Bull De ance race director Bex Law.

With only 85 team spots available each year, the event sells out prior to its January 19 start and last year attracted competitors from all over the world including Australia, UK, USA and Europe.

“The teams of two get to race across this incredible course that Braden has designed which is based on some of the areas in Wanaka that he loves to train on himself,” says Bex. “His success has inspired a lot of local athletes to get together and compete alongside internationals who just want to race in this part of the world.”

With Red Bull as the media partner, the event creates significant profile for Wanaka and is a showcase of outstanding locations.

Edgewater Wanaka is the race hub with pre and post race activities being hosted in the grounds of the lakeside hotel.

“Edgewater is a really popular spot perfectly located right on the lakefront just off the MillenniumTrack,” says Bex. “Athletes and spectators will be able to chill out, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the weekend together.” Entries are open for the Red Bull Defiance and single stage events at www.redbulldefiance.nz