Challenge Roth 2026 Relay

3 Athletes.
1 Mission.
Zero Limits.

Three athletes living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease take on the DATEV Challenge Roth relay to fund CMT research, patient advocacy and awareness across Europe.

Three ECMTF athletes living with CMT swim, cycle and run the DATEV Challenge Roth relay; the runner wears ankle-foot orthoses
DATEV Challenge Roth

Why the "Shark" Team?

Charcot in CMT sounds a lot like Shark in English! These three athletes—two German women and an Italian man—live with CMT, a progressive inherited neuropathy that can cause disability. They will cover the same demanding relay distances while navigating the fatigue, muscle weakness and mobility challenges CMT can bring. Their non-profit fundraiser supports CMT research and the European patient community.

Annalena, ECMTF Shark Team swimmer living with CMT

Annalena

Germany | 3.8km Swim

Taking on the waters of the Main-Donau-Kanal, Annalena shows that fluidity and strength conquer nerve constraints. She lives with CMT1A.

Lena, ECMTF Shark Team cyclist living with CMT

Lena

Germany | 180km Bike

On her triathlon bike, Lena takes on 180 km of cycling, pushing through muscle fatigue caused by CMT. She lives with CMT1X.

Silvio, ECMTF Shark Team runner living with CMT

Silvio

Italy | 42.2km Run

Crossing the finish line, Silvio brings Italian passion to the marathon, defying muscle weakness every step. He lives with CMT2N.

What is CMT?

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders, affecting approximately 1 in 2,500 people. It causes damage to the peripheral nerves—the nerves that transmit information and signals from the brain and spinal cord to and from the rest of the body.

CMT can lead to progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the arms and legs, making a challenge like a triathlon relay a monumental feat of willpower and specialized training.

Learn more about CMT

How ECMTF Helps

  • Research Funding

    Supporting vital scientific research to find treatments and a cure for CMT.

  • Patient Advocacy

    Uniting European patient organizations to amplify the voice of those living with CMT.

  • Awareness Campaigns

    Educating healthcare professionals and the public to ensure faster diagnosis and better care.

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Cheer for the Shark Team or dedicate your donation!

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