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The team

Danny McCann

Founder

Founder of the Montreal Esprit Triathlon, Danny McCann began his triathlon career in 1980 as the sport was emerging globally. With the absence of other triathlon events in the province of Quebec, he created the Esprit Triathlon (initially named the Montreal World Triathlon) in 1984 and was the organizer for 39 years. Under his leadership, the event has experienced remarkable growth, with a modest 150 competitors in the first edition to nearly 4000 athletes today. Recognizing the quality of the event orchestrated by Danny, the International Triathlon Union asked him to organize the 1999 World Triathlon Championships in Montreal, thus putting the city on the map as a global destination for triathlon.

Recognized for his dedication to sport and innovative spirit, McCann was inducted into the Triathlon Canada Hall of Fame in 2009 for his outstanding contribution to the sport. He was also honored as an ambassador for the sport of triathlon at the Triathlon Quebec 30th Anniversary Gala in 2018.

Challenge Family

The Challenge Family team is driven by the same thing that drives athletes! The passion to push limits, to enjoy what we do and to be the best we can be.

Celebrating 20 years of Challenge in 2022 and with over 30 long and middle distance triathlons around the globe featuring spectacular courses in iconic destinations, no Challenge Family race is like any other. Focusing on delivering the race of a lifetime to athletes of all ages and abilities, Challenge Family races provide unforgettable experiences that capture all the excitement and emotions of this inspirational sport for competitors, friends, family and supporters alike.

Challenge Family is going above and beyond! We are achieving this with the highest possible respect for the legacy of the sport of triathlon, the athletes, hosting communities, media, sport governing bodies, environment and industry partners.

We – the team – are creating innovative platforms for sustained growth; and together with our partners sharing our ethical values and business morals.

The Challenge Family logo reflects our core elements of vitality, passion, victory and inclusiveness. Every time you see the famous ‘heart’ of triathlon, you will know it represents the most valued aspects of our sport.

Are you ready for the challenge?

11th to 13th September  2026 PARC JEAN-DRAPEAU / ÎLE NOTRE-DAME | BASSIN OLYMPIQUE ET AU CIRCUIT GILLES-VILLENEUVE SAIL CHALLENGE Esprit Montréal
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