What is the San Diego Triathlon Challenge (SDTC)?

SDTC is CAF’s flagship community weekend, combining a triathlon, Tour de Cove, 5K Walk + Roll, and Kids’ Run. It’s a fundraiser and a celebration of inclusivity in sport.

When and where does the event take place?

Sunday, October 25, 2026 La Jolla Cove, 1100 Coast Blvd

What are the distances for the Triathlon Challenge?

Swim: 1 mile Bike: 30 miles (+1,856 ft) Run: 8 miles (+364 ft)

Is there a relay option?

Yes. SDTC allows relay teams of 2–3 participants. Each completes one segment. Tour de Cove also allows relay teams.

Can I do just one portion of the triathlon?

You do not have to be part of a relay; you can also participate in just the swim, just the bike, or just the run.

What are the fundraising minimums?

SDTC & Tour de Cove: $500 per participant Fundraising Team Challenge: $1,500 average per team member

What rules apply to the bike course?

Helmets must be worn and fastened No headphones, drafting, or arrow bars This is an open course—follow road rules Pedal-assist e-bikes permitted; throttle e-bikes not allowed No one under 16 years old on the bike course due to open roads. Participants on the bike course who are under 18 must be with a parent or legal guardian throughout the ride. Anyone under 16 years must have a parent or assigned handler with them on the swim and run portions.

How can spectators or volunteers get involved?

Spectators are welcome to cheer on participants. Volunteers are essential for athlete support, check-in, water stations, and more.

CAF Policy for SDTC Participants under 18

The minimum age to register and participate in the race is 12 years old for the swim and run, and 16 years old for the cycling portion. No one under 16 years old on the bike course due to the open roads. Participants on the bike course who are under 18 must be with a parent or legal guardian throughout the ride. Anyone under 16 years must have a parent or assigned handler with them on the swim and run portions. As a special consideration, and only for challenged athletes who are 10-12 yrs old, we will offer a short swim option of (approximately) 400 yards, and they must have a handler with them. This is to give challenged athletes an experience within the race setting, just as we offer for the kids’ run.

Does CAF accept offline donations?

Yes. Checks and cash are accepted with an offline donation form. Please make checks payable to Challenged Athletes Foundation and send to: CAF, Attn: Finance Dept 9591 Waples St, San Diego, CA 92121

All Things 2026 San Diego Triathlon Challenge: Schedule, Hotels, Routes & FAQs

The San Diego Triathlon Challenge (SDTC) returns to La Jolla Cove on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Whether you’re racing individually, teaming up in a relay, or joining Tour de Cove and the 5K Walk + Roll, this page collects the essentials: schedules, hotel info, route maps, and FAQs.

Schedule of Events

View the full Schedule of Events for the weekend.

Saturday: Athlete check-in, festival activities, community gatherings.
Sunday: Triathlon Challenge, Tour de Cove, 5K Walk + Roll, Toyota Sports Festival, Kids’ Run.

Sunday Triathlon Routes + Maps

Swim

1 mile at La Jolla Cove. Entry/exit via stairs. If you need assistance navigating the stairs, email Rudy@challengedathletes.org. If you skip the swim, it will not be included in your overall time.

Bike

30 miles (+1,856 ft elevation). North through Torrey Pines and along Pacific Coast Highway with turnaround at Swami’s in Encinitas. This is an open course; follow rules of the road.

View Ride with GPS map

Run

8 miles (+364 ft elevation). La Jolla to Bird Rock and back along the coast. Open course; follow rules of the road.

View Strava route

5K Walk + Roll

Community-friendly option open to all.

Adaptive Sports Clinics

Throughout SDTC weekend, athletes of all abilities can take part in free Adaptive Sports Clinics. These sessions give participants the chance to try new sports, connect with coaches, and build confidence in a supportive environment.

Clinics are open to registered athletes and community members. Sports include wheelchair tennis, adaptive cycling, running, swimming, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and celebrate movement with the CAF community.

View Clinic Schedule