The European triathlon season officially started at the Anfi Challenge Mogán Gran Canaria 2026, with standout victories from France’s Damien Le Mesnager and Germany’s Caroline Pohle in one of the most competitive early-season races in Europe.
With entries sold out months in advance, the event once again confirmed its status as a key race in the international triathlon calendar and the only international triathlon held in Gran Canaria.
Damien Le Mesnager takes first professional win in Gran Canaria
Damien Le Mesnager delivered an outstanding performance to win the men’s race in 3:48:09, claiming his first professional victory.
After a strong start by Michele Bortolamedi, who led the swim and much of the bike, Le Mesnager made a decisive move in the final stages of the cycling segment. He then secured the win during the run after breaking away in the early kilometers.
- 1st: Damien Le Mesnager (FRA) – 3:48:09
- 2nd: Michele Bortolamedi (ITA) – 3:50:05
- 3rd: Michele Sarzilla (ITA) – 3:55:31
Sarzilla recorded the fastest run split of the day (1:13:59).
Caroline Pohle dominates women’s race
Caroline Pohle controlled the women’s race from the bike segment onwards and secured victory in 4:18:17, marking an emotional comeback after a difficult season.
- 1st: Caroline Pohle (GER) – 4:18:17
- 2nd: Anne-Sophie Pierre (FRA) – 4:21:44
- 3rd: Nikki Bartlett (GBR) – 4:24:24
Pohle built a solid lead during the bike and maintained it comfortably throughout the run.
Middle distance winners: García Jiménez and Pérez Almeida
The middle distance race also delivered exciting performances:
Men’s race
- 1st: Willy García Jiménez – 2:28:15
- 2nd: Fernando Marian de Diego – 2:28:54
- 3rd: Luis Hernández Cano – 2:32:40
Women’s race
- 1st: Lucía Pérez Almeida – 3:00:50
- 2nd: Laura Socas Hernández – 3:05:37
- 3rd: Stephanie Hess (SUI) – 3:10:41
Key triathlon event in Europe and Gran Canaria
The Anfi Challenge Mogán Gran Canaria is part of the Challenge Family circuit and serves as the opening race of the European triathlon season. The event is supported by Mogán City Council, the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, Turismo de Gran Canaria, and other key institutions.
With ideal weather conditions, a fast course, and strong international participation, the race continues to grow as one of the most important triathlon events in Spain and Europe.
