The world of Para triathlon’s PTS5 class is a relentless rollercoaster, and no one knows this better than Chris Hammer, who recently reclaimed the world title in Wollongong. But here’s where it gets controversial: in a class where dominance is fleeting and upsets are the norm, can anyone truly reign supreme for long? Let’s dive into the thrilling saga of Hammer’s journey and the fierce competition that defines this sport.
The PTS5 category has emerged as one of the most cutthroat arenas in triathlon, where defending a title feels like trying to hold sand in your fist. Take Tokyo Paralympic champion Martin Schulz, who tumbled from first to third in Paris. Or Jack Howell, the 2024 Oceania champion, who was stunned in his bid to retain the continental crown. Even Europe saw a shift in gold medalists between 2024 and 2025. And the world title? It’s anyone’s game.
Defending champion Stefan Daniel was pushed to fourth in Wollongong, while Hammer roared back to the top, reclaiming gold in what he calls one of his sweetest victories. ‘I won in 2021,’ Hammer reflects, ‘but that year was overshadowed by the Tokyo Paralympics. This time, it feels like a true world title.’ But here’s the kicker: Hammer’s win wasn’t handed to him. Facing off against rising star Howell, who had the home crowd’s thunderous support, Hammer battled through every stage of the race, ultimately securing victory by a mere 28 seconds in the 5km run.
‘This class is probably the most competitive in all of Para sport,’ Hammer admits. ‘You could have a great race and still miss the podium. The competition is fast, young, and unpredictable.’ At 39, Hammer is racing against athletes like Howell, who’s in his early 20s. ‘I never know what to expect,’ he adds. And this is the part most people miss: Hammer’s strength lies in his bike-run combo, compensating for his weaker swim. ‘I come out of the water knowing I have to give it everything on the bike,’ he explains. ‘But even then, there’s no guarantee.’
The rise of young talent like Howell, Ireland’s Tom Williamson, and Portugal’s Filipe Marques has transformed the PTS5 class. These phenomenal swimmers are shaking up the race from the start, forcing legends like Schulz and Daniel to fight just to stay in contention. ‘It’s good for the sport,’ Hammer notes. ‘There’s no foregone conclusion anymore.’
Yet, Hammer’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. After his Paralympic gold in Paris, he placed fourth at the World Championships later that year. ‘I let myself go a bit,’ he admits. A comment from his wife—‘He’s lost the fire’—reignited his determination. ‘If I’m going to continue, I can’t just go through the motions,’ he says.
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, Hammer faces an opponent more relentless than any rival: time. At 42 by LA 2028, he’s acutely aware of his mortality in the sport. ‘I know the wheels will fall off eventually,’ he says. ‘So I’m taking it one day at a time, enjoying the process.’ But here’s the bold question: Can Hammer defy age and claim back-to-back Paralympic golds?
While Daniel Molina won PTS2 gold at nearly 50, Hammer acknowledges the challenge. ‘Being 40 means something different now,’ he says. ‘Recovery and body care have improved, but I still feel my age in some ways.’ His strategy? Double down on his strengths. ‘I can’t sacrifice my bike-run prowess to become a better swimmer,’ he asserts. ‘I need to stay the strongest in the field.’
As the PTS5 class grows stronger, Hammer remains a force to be reckoned with. But the real question is: Can he hold off the likes of Howell, Schulz, and Daniel in 2026? What do you think? Is Hammer’s reign sustainable, or is the next generation poised to take over? Share your thoughts in the comments!
