XTERRA Trail Run World Championship
From the steep climbs, sharp descents, and rugged backcountry trails of Sugarloaf Mountain, these are the stories of those who crossed the line to become the new XTERRA Trail Run World Champion in their division.
Labor Day weekend saw the return of the 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship to Sugarloaf Mountain, a place that has quickly earned its spot in the history of this race. Since 2008, when the event first took off on the rugged trails of Kualoa Ranch, Hawaii, it has grown into a global test of trail running endurance. In 2023, Sugarloaf, Maine, became the new battleground, and in 2024, athletes from 28 countries arrived to take it on once more.
Runners stormed in from Canada, UK, Brazil, Chile, Spain, Belgium, New Zealand, and more to take on the 42K Full Marathon and 21K Half Marathon, with each course pushing them to dig deep and find something extra on every climb and descent. These trails were demanding, and this year’s competitors delivered—each runner battling for the title of 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Champion in their respective age group.
As we celebrate these champions, we recognize their grit, determination, and the effort it took to conquer Sugarloaf. Here are the athletes who rose to the challenge and claimed their place among the XTERRA greats.
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An unforgettable 42K Full Marathon with elevations starting at 1,417 feet and climbing to over 4,200 feet, pushed runners to their limits as they navigated steep climbs, sharp descents, and the technical terrain of Maine’s backcountry.
The race kicked off with a grueling ascent, followed by a fast, adrenaline-fueled downhill section, winding through dense forest trails and along the Carrabassett River. Conquering every twist and turn, the Full Marathon challenged those with the grit to endure all the way to the finish.
Amongst the champions that emerged, a handful of stories stood out, revealing the intense passion and dedication that fueled their efforts.
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Charlotte Farrant, fresh from a strong second-place finish in her age group at the Fatdog120 Ultra 100km just three weeks prior, prevailed once again at the 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship by winning her age group. Already a top performer with wins like first overall woman at the 2024 XTERRA Black Canyon Trail Marathon, Charlotte approached the Sugarloaf course with patience. “I took it a lot more cautiously than the 30-year-olds who were tearing up the descents,” she said. Her strategy was simple but effective: “My approach was to be patient and put in a solid day from start to finish.” Running has always been more than just competition for Charlotte. “Being enveloped in nature for several precious hours, alone in your head, anticipating what is around the next corner,” is what motivates her to keep tackling these tough races. For Charlotte, conquering Sugarloaf at 51 was a far cry from her high school days when she was told she didn’t have the biomechanics to be a runner. Now, she’s proving those doubts wrong, one finish line at a time.
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Stéphane Plante, with over 45 years of international racing experience, took on the 42K Full Marathon, finishing first in his age group. Coming off a second-place finish in 2023 for the 55-59 age group, Stéphane once again showcased his enduring passion for the sport. “It’s always about surpassing my capacity,” he shared, reflecting on what keeps him motivated after all these years. Despite battling overheating between kilometers 21-28 and managing a recently sprained ankle on the technical descents, Stéphane crossed the finish line “strong and proud” of his performance. For him, it's all about exceeding his own limits, and at 60, he's still pushing boundaries in every race.
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Competing in her first XTERRA Word Championship event, Lila Gaudrault brought her ultrarunning experience to Sugarloaf Mountain and finished strong. Known for setting course records at 12 ultramarathons throughout the Northeast in 2024, including the Vermont 100-Miler, Lila’s competitive edge was on full display. “Running brings me so much joy, and I view racing as a celebration of all the training and hard work that’s already been done,” she shared. Though the XTERRA course was shorter than her usual races, it posed its own challenges. “The technical descent was difficult for me—I struggle on that type of terrain and found myself getting passed left and right,” she admitted. However, she rallied at the bottom, picking up the pace to secure a strong finish. Despite the accumulated fatigue from a year packed with races, Lila embraced the Sugarloaf course, familiar with its Maine terrain yet humbled by its difficulty.
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Michel Cayer’s journey into trail running is nothing short of remarkable. At 49 years old, Michel battled through health challenges that kept him away from sports as a child. Diagnosed with narcolepsy at 27, he discovered that pushing his body through extreme physical challenges was the key to staying awake and alive. After six years of training, Michel took on his first Spartan Ultra Beast Race at Mont Tremblant and finished 3rd overall. But heading into the 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship, pain from recent electrolyte issues loomed large. Despite lingering pain and nerves, Michel managed a strong performance. “I wasn’t as fast as I would’ve wanted, but enough to get a good position,” he reflected. The gnarly and slippery 5K downhill section was tough, but he powered through, enjoying every moment of the race and praising the XTERRA crew for making him “feel like a champion.”
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Competing in his first XTERRA Trail Run World Championship, Jose Amaya embraced the challenge of Sugarloaf Mountain with a mix of determination and adaptability. Coming off a series of wins in Arizona, including an Ultramarathon Night Series victory, Jose was well-prepared for the long distances but found the slippery, wet terrain of Maine a new test. “The terrain was unlike anything I had ever seen,” he admitted, but his mindset of quickly adapting helped him push through. Jose faced 2AM training sessions in the scorching Arizona heat, battling pulled muscles and even run-ins with cacti to prepare for this race. Crossing the finish line was a powerful moment for him, filled with elation and relief. “It was pure joy to stop and immediately embrace my wife,” he shared, a fitting close to months of preparation.
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Mead Binhammer’s stellar year included a second-place finish at the USATF 50k National Championships and a course record at the Jigger Johnson 50-Mile. Mead brought that same grit to Sugarloaf to win his age group and second place overall. He explained, “As I heard the revelry of the finish line to my right, I increased my pace slightly and cruised around the final curve to the finish, where my partner and dog awaited me to celebrate."
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Running his first-ever Full Marathon, Mykel Henry finished with a win in the Men’s 20-24 age group. “This was the best race of my career so far," he said. What keeps him coming back is the challenge and the community: “I love the cruel, unforgiving nature of tough races, but also the camaraderie. Everyone is kind, supportive, and we push each other to do our best.” For Mykel, it’s all about growth: “I have a rule for myself—to outdo my physical accomplishments from the previous year.” The sense of accomplishment he felt at the finish line left a lasting impression: “I knew this scene was for me.”
M15-19: Clement Reul, BEL, 3:54:41
M20-24: Mykel Henry, USA, 4:58:19
M25-29: Grant Colligan, USA, 3:34:45
M30-34: Mead Binhammer, USA, 3:42:52
M35-39: Jose Amaya, USA, 5:09:35
M40-44: Nathan Irons, USA, 4:35:24
M45-49: Michel Cayer, CAN, 4:47:08
M50-54: Christophe Le Saux, FRA, 4:14:56
M60-64: Stéphane Plante, CAN, 5:49:43
M65-69: Joseph Portelli, MLT, 7:25:51
M70-74: Glen Avery, USA, 8:09:23
F20-24: Lila Gaudrault, USA, 4:31:35
F25-29: Marie-Anne Michel, CAN, 4:54:11
F30-34: Caitlin Patterson, USA, 4:11:06
F40-44: Diana Acuña, COL, 5:27:58
F45-49: Nic Baxter, USA, 4:37:04
F50-54: Charlotte Farrant, CAN, 6:14:29
The 21K Half Marathon competitors tackled the steep 355 trail, climbing over 2400 feet in the first 5K before a challenging 1K descent. From the rugged trails of Burnt Mountain to the peaceful paths around Moose Pond, the course blended speed and technicality.
Among these Champions, a few stories truly captured the grit and passion that define XTERRA racing.
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At 76, Jo May continues to embrace the challenges of XTERRA with the same spirit she’s shown throughout decades of competing. A veteran of the trail scene, she recalls her early accomplishments, like winning the Mountain Masochist 50 Trail Run in 1992 and Holiday Lake 50K in 1995. “Yes, that was a long time ago!” she quipped. This year’s Half Marathon presented its own hurdles, particularly the steep descents from Burnt Mountain, which she admitted were “beyond my level of expertise at this point.” Still, Jo finished strong, cheered on by spectators. “I had plenty of energy at the finish,” she shared, grateful for the supportive atmosphere and determined to keep enjoying the journey alongside her husband, Doug Beagle, who often races with her. Together, they’ve been part of the XTERRA community for years, returning for the friendships, the scenery, and the undeniable love for the sport.
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Daniel Hayman captured the 20-24 age group title, marking a standout achievement in his trail running career. Coming off a strong performance at the 2023 XTERRA European Trail Run Championship in Italy, where he finished 5th overall and 1st in his age group, Daniel faced a tough build-up to this race. "I've been trying to prepare for this event for the last 6 months and I've been repeatedly knocked down with injury and a couple of really nasty viruses," he shared. Even the final days leading up to the race were difficult, with travel and nerves affecting his appetite. “I’m really glad my parents made the trip over with me because I don’t think I would have been in a great state to race if they weren’t here,” he admitted. Despite the challenges, Daniel was driven by the prestige of the event, saying, “The World Champs of any sport is the pinnacle... it’s something that I won’t be forgetting for a very, very long time.”
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Barb Heiliger, primarily a road runner, tackled her first XTERRA Trail Run World Championship, finishing first in her age group. Reflecting on the course, she noted, “I thought the Taiwan races were extremely challenging, but it turned out Sugarloaf was much more challenging, especially the first half. The steep climb to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain was tough. Coming down wasn’t easy either.” Barb first discovered XTERRA in 2010 while visiting Maui for a wedding and has since enjoyed competing in a variety of events . “I felt a huge feeling of accomplishment once I completed the course. Finishing first in my age group was a bonus.” At 67 years young, she plans to continue running in XTERRA races for as long as she’s able, representing her gender and age group proudly in every competition.
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In his first-ever XTERRA race, Rémi Leroux claimed the Men’s 25-29 title and 1st overall. Known for excelling in vertical races, Rémi faced a unique challenge with the technical 6K downhill section at Sugarloaf. “I specialize in vertical races, so the descent was a big challenge,” he explained. His strategy? Push hard on the initial uphill and create a lead. “I hoped to have a big enough lead at the top to not get caught on the downhill, and it ended up working great.” After battling through a foot stress fracture and illnesses earlier in the year, crossing the finish line healthy was a moment of gratitude. “I’ve learned not to take my health for granted,” Rémi reflected.
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With a history of impressive finishes, including top 8 at the Ultra-Trail Harricana du Canada and a top 3 in her category at the 2022 Tavignanu Trail in Corsica, Sandrine Wettach thrives on pushing her limits. "I started trail running for the challenge, and participating in this World Championship gave me a new sense of motivation," she explained. Despite a tough training season, Sandrine switched to the Half Marathon for a safer and more enjoyable race experience. Her approach to the technical course was guided by her background as a certified professional skier. “I’m used to managing conditions in the mountains and staying adaptable,” she noted. She praised the event by concluding, “The organization team and the security service were great—welcoming and offering good advice that helped me approach this Championship in optimal conditions.”
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Clément Perrier's second-place finish at the Trail de La Clinique Du Coureur 30K and a 6th place at the Québec Méga Trail 50K earlier in the year brought a wealth of experience to the start line. "I was both delighted and surprised to finish 2nd [overall], as it wasn't at all my objective before the race," he shared. "I’m not generally the fastest on the descents, but I gave it my all to try and open up a gap without taking too many risks," he said. Despite battling a thigh contraction at kilometer 15, Clément, originally from France, but living in Quebec, Canada, pushed through to hold his position. "What a pleasure to share the podium with Quebecer Rémi Leroux and Frenchman Benoît Didier," he added, capping off a strong and determined performance.
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Aida Menz, a seasoned trail runner and coach from Chile, is known for her success in Chilean races, including a first-place finish at the 18K Torrencial de Valdivia in 2022 and second in the 42K Traverse in 2023, Aida brought her competitive edge to Sugarloaf. "I traveled alone to this race. It was my first time in the United States, and I fell in love with everything," she shared. Balancing life’s demands—work, family, and training—was one of her biggest challenges leading up to the event. "I wanted to keep running—so much happiness," Aida said as she crossed the finish line. Moments later, seeing others overcome with emotion, she found herself crying too, overwhelmed by the accomplishment and the journey it took to get there.
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After qualifying at XTERRA Deadwood Mickelson, Shaun Hamilton found himself taking on his second-ever XTERRA race. "I just got done training and running the Boston Marathon, so I was in shape for that downhill half," he shared. However, Sugarloaf’s steep technical descent proved to be a whole new challenge. "I’ve never run anything that steep. Pretty much had to ride the brakes the whole way down, and I got passed more than I liked," he admitted. Despite the tough terrain, Shaun was captivated by the views from the summit and impressed by the international competition. "It was a great experience, and I plan on going to Snowdonia in the UK next year to defend my age group title," he said, already looking ahead to the next adventure.
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At just 14 years old, Zoey Crosby already has an impressive trail running resume, including first woman finishes at both the Predator Ridge and Kamloops Dirty Feet races earlier this year. Zoey made her 2024 Trail Run World Series debut at XTERRA Pemberton, where she also finished as the top woman. "I was excited to try and qualify for the World Championship and get the opportunity to race against runners from all over the world," she shared. Trail running is more than a sport for Zoey—it’s a passion that makes her feel free and happy. "I crave the adrenaline and excitement that comes with a race, and I want to continue racing and becoming a stronger athlete." Crossing the finish line at Sugarloaf, leaves no doubt that this young athlete has a bright future ahead in trail running.
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A school teacher and coach from New Hampshire, Corey Dowe claimed victory in the Women’s 30-34 division and the overall title of 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Champion. Coming off top results like 23rd at the 2022 World Mountain Running Championships and 4th in the US Mountain Running Championships, Corey returned to Sugarloaf for the second year in a row after placing 3rd in last year’s race. "I love a local New England race, and I knew Sugarloaf has a great scene," she explained. The course, slightly different from last year, played to her strengths, especially the technical downhill. "Once we got to the downhill, my favorite part, I just had some fun!" Despite taking three months off in the spring due to a hip flexor injury, Corey felt stronger crossing the finish line this year, excited for the races ahead.
M10-14: Noah Tremblay, CAN, 4:14:12
M15-19: Maxence Malo, CAN, 2:24:30
M20-24: Daniel Hayman, NZL, 2:15:31
M25-29: Rémi Leroux, CAN, 1:51:06
M30-34: Clément Perrier, FRA, 2:03:21
M35-39: Ryan Collins, USA, 2:15:28
M40-44: Barret Fishner, USA, 2:43:46
M45-49: Shaun Hamilton, USA, 2:32:31
M50-54: Christopher Bellows, USA, 2:28:39
M55-59: Stéphane Ravier, CHE, 2:34:58
M60-64: John Pillion, USA, 2:54:03
M65-69: Kevin Tuck, USA, 2:30:13
M70-74: Len Hall, USA, 3:40:22
M75-79: Gordon Dooley, USA, 4:00:20
F15-19: Zoey Crosby, CAN, 2:22:38
F20-24: Karla Boß, DEU, 3:00:12
F25-29: Abigail Bennett, USA, 2:17:26
F30-34: Corey Dowe, USA, 2:06:44
F35-39: Aida Menz, CHL, 2:38:12
F40-44: Marlene Dessarzin, CHE, 2:36:27
F45-49: Tara Gangi, USA, 2:52:46
F50-54: Severine Guerif, FRA, 2:26:13
F55-59: Sandrine Wettach, CAN, 3:56:42
F60-64: Salima Delhoum, FRA, 5:41:31
F65-69: Barb Heiliger, CAN, 4:13:58
F75-79: Jo May, USA, 7:29:03
As the dust settled on the 15th edition of the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship at Sugarloaf Mountain, the 2024 champions stood tall, representing the best of the global trail running community. From seasoned veterans to first-time contenders, every runner brought their determination and passion to the trails. We salute all the champions who conquered this year’s course and earned their place in XTERRA history.
With the crowning of the 2024 champions, the journey at Sugarloaf has reached its final chapter. Next year, the mystical trails of Snowdonia, Wales, will take up the torch as the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship moves to its new home. The 16th edition, scheduled for July 11-12, 2025, promises a fresh set of challenges in one of the world’s most breathtaking trail-running destinations. The road to Snowdonia has already begun, with runners from around the globe ready to write the next chapter in their XTERRA story.
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XTERRA is a global lifestyle brand that champions the outdoor enthusiast in their pursuit of relentless adventure.
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