Source: Scope Communications
Media personality and multisport athlete Brodie Kane will return to the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half in February 2026, joining Olympic gold medallist Emma Twigg and fitness trainer Caroline Patterson in the team event.
Kane will swim the 1.9km leg of the iconic middle-distance triathlon, with Twigg taking on the 90km bike and Patterson, described by her team mates as a “demon in running shoes”, will do the 21.1km run. With all three having busy lives outside of sport, Kane says their team reflects the spirit of the event; strong, supportive and inspiring.
“I’ve had a huge year of racing, so this time I need the moral support and fun of being in a team,” says Kane. “And the event was so much fun last time I did it – such great vibes – I couldn’t say no.”
Challenge Wānaka is calling on more women to enter the 2026 event, with a focus on growing female participation through its partnership with Kane, who believes women often underestimate their strength and hopes her involvement will help others take the leap.
“Women are classic overthinkers, we catastrophise and doubt ourselves all the time,” she says. “But the joy it brings me when I see women overcome those thoughts is absolutely priceless. You will never regret giving something like this a go.”
Challenge Wānaka Event Director Jane Sharman says Kane’s involvement is a huge boost for the event and its wider mission.
“Brodie brings energy, authenticity and a real passion for empowering women,” says Sharman. “She’s relatable, she’s inspiring, and she’s not afraid to talk about the tough stuff – from body confidence to imposter syndrome. We’re thrilled to have her on board.”
“Women are often juggling so much – careers, kids, commitments – and that can make training for an event feel overwhelming. Taking on Challenge Wānaka as a team not only makes the event more achievable, but also brings an extra element of fun to the experience.”
Held along the shores of Lake Wānaka and surrounding river tracks and trails, Challenge Wānaka is often described as New Zealand’s ultimate destination race, combining world-class racing with the beauty of the lakeside town.
“It’s genuinely an event for everyone,” says Kane. “You get to start on the same start line as elite athletes and share the course with people from all walks of life. And also, Wānaka! It’s ridiculously beautiful – the whole weekend will be epic.”
Kane is also encouraging others to seize the opportunity to enter Challenge Wānaka and begin planning an unforgettable summer race weekend in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations. With event registrations now open, there is also the opportunity to win a Challenge Wānaka weekend experience through the ‘Ultimate Wānaka Race Weekend’ giveaway, which includes race entry, accommodation for two and a range of Wānaka experiences to make the most of your “race-cation.”
The Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half and Garth Barfoot Aquabike take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, with the junior, intermediate, and senior schools events taking place on Thursday, February 19, and Friday, February 20. The triathlon includes a 1.9km swim in Lake Wānaka, a 90km bike ride and a 21.1km run with entries open to Individuals and teams.
Entry to the Ultimate Wānaka Race Weekend Giveaway is now open, here. Entries close November 15.
https://challenge-wanaka.com/enter-giveaway/
About Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka
The Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka is one of the world’s most scenic triathlon festivals, held annually in New Zealand’s stunning Southern Lakes region. Featuring a range of events including the flagship middle-distance triathlon, multisport races, and AquaBike, the festival welcomes athletes of all levels. Operated by the Challenge Wānaka Sports Trust, a charitable organisation committed to community wellbeing, the event supports youth, adaptive athletes, and local charities through inclusive sport and recreation initiatives. In 2026, the Challenge Wānaka Festival event will mark its 20th year, taking place from February 19 – February 21. Registrations at www.challenge-wanaka.com.
