The SWISSMAN Xtreme Triathlon draws athletes in with its breathtaking scenery, a one-of-a-kind course, and often surprisingly tough weather conditions. That’s exactly why it means so much to so many. The route crosses four Swiss cantons, three Alpine passes, and two lakes—covering 226 kilometers and 5,575 meters of elevation—before reaching the iconic finish line. On Saturday, June 21, 2025, 250 athletes from around the globe will take on the next edition of this legendary event.
Fate decides, motivation unites.
SWISSMAN slots are in high demand. Since the end of February, it’s official: the starting field is set. Out of around 600 registrations, 250 athletes were selected by lottery. True to its Swiss roots, half of the starting spots are reserved for Swiss athletes, while the rest are drawn globally. This year, participants from 43 nations will line up at the start—proof of the worldwide fascination this race sparks among extreme endurance athletes.
Starting field: international, across generations
The athletes aren’t just international—they also span a wide age range. There are 46 years between the youngest, 20-year-old Filip Wold from Norway, and the oldest, 66-year-old Chris Harrison from England. Among the Swiss participants, Yael van der Geest (25) is the youngest woman to take on the challenge, and Samuel Guhl (21) the youngest man.
The reasons for taking part are as diverse as the athletes themselves. Some are chasing the ultimate athletic challenge, others fulfilling a lifelong dream—and for a few, SWISSMAN becomes a lasting passion. Just like Markus Vitali from Switzerland, who’s lining up at the start for the fifth time.
In 2025, the SWISSMAN Crew itself adds to the diversity of the field. After Katrin Simioni, one half of the SWISSMAN co-presidency, took on the course in 2024, it’s Sampo Lenzi’s turn in 2025. For Lenzi, who’s been part of the crew since day one, SWISSMAN won’t just be his first extreme triathlon—it’ll also be his first long-distance race ever.
Sampo Lenzi and Katrin Simioni, the SWISSMAN co-presidents
More than a race – a journey to yourself
SWISSMAN kicks off with a 3.8-kilometer swim from the Brissago Islands to Ascona. From there, athletes tackle a 180-kilometer bike ride over the Gotthard, Furka, and Grimsel passes. The final challenge is a 42.2-kilometer run from Brienz up to Kleine Scheidegg—an ultimate test for both body and mind.
But SWISSMAN is more than just an extreme triathlon. It’s a journey to the edge of your limits—and an experience that stays with you for life. The organizers are excited to write the next chapter of this extraordinary event on June 21, 2025—and wish all athletes a strong and successful preparation.
