Photos from the 2014 Challenge Kraichgau - a race won by German Pros Sebastian Kienle and Julia Gajer. The two athletes also earned the German middle distance titles with that effort. Moving forward this will be an Ironman 70.3 event.

Julia Gajer sat alone before the swim start and collected her thoughts.

A bit earlier in the day Ronny Schildknecht made sure he had the right tire pressure.

The shoes and bike of Ironman 70.3 World Champion Sebastian Kienle awaits the pilot.

Jenny Schulz and Laura Philipp looked calm and relaxed as they entered the water.

And the race for the Elite wave is on indeed.

German Marc Dülsen was among the leaders for most of the bike segment.

After a fast swim Julia Gajer put out a very solid effort on the bike.

Some of the age groupers in action of the undulating Kraichgau course.

There was no doubt about who was moving fastest during this bike segment.

Timo Braht was a late entry and he pushed hard, but was unable to keep Kienle close.

Maurice Clavel was first out of the water among the Pros, but last year he raced this event as an age grouper.

Another age grouper in action on the beautiful countryside in Kraichgau.

Gina Crawford was solid all day and set the pace on the bike.

These 3 men battled hard for places 2-4 with the top spot well up the road.

Van Vlerken chased all day and at the end was rewarded with a podium spot.

It would be 4th place for Laura Philipp who reportedly had mechanical problems with her bike.

The men's podium at the 2014 Challenge Kraichgau.

Julia Gajer took the win but it clearly did not come easy.

Gina Crawford fought a valiant fight against Gajer and was rewarded with second place.

This man had the fastest swim time in Kraichgau, not surprising considering his athletic background.