Endorsed by Chrissie Wellington as a test of mental and physical stamina, the inaugural Challenge Henley-on-Thames is shaping up to be an epic battle between Britain and Germany in the iron distance triathlon arena.

For the home side there is multiple iron distance champion, Stephen Bayliss who has already racked three top five finishes this year, including Challenge Barcelona and Challenge Fuerteventura.

For Germany is legendary multiple winner of ironman and five times Challenge Roth winner Lothar Leder. Leder was the first man to break the eight hour barrier in 1996. Throw in Ironman UK 2011 winner Australian Aaron Farlow in to the mix, and Challenge Henley promises to make an exciting entry into the British triathlon arena.

Up to a thousand athletes will swim 3.8km in the Thames on the Royal Regatta Course, 180km cycle on closed roads through the Chiltern Hills, followed by a 42k run through Henley and by the Thames.

Challenge Henley-on-Thames is part of the global Challenge Family series of long distance triathlons which feature 13 races over three continents. For further information visit http://www.challenge-family.com