XTERRA Off-Road Triathlons: August '25

Hagg Lake is a perfect race destination. It’s easy to get to with Portland International Airport just a short drive away, and accommodations are affordable. The lake itself is big, clean, and beautiful. The road loop around Hagg holds the oldest road Olympic triathlon. The mountain bike trail and trail run both follow single track around the lake with just a few sections popping out onto the road. Locals train here all the time for their swims, bike rides, and runs.

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I’m at Hagg every week during the summer for lake swims and training. I’ve done the XTERRA here as long as it has existed and have also raced the road triathlon several times. I’ve even done long endurance road rides in the area while training for Ironmans. It’s a place that really feels like home to me.

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What stands out about this course is the clean water — warm but still wetsuit legal — and the fun single track bike and run around the lake. The organizers create such a great atmosphere with a lively start and finish line that keeps everyone smiling.

The terrain is technical single track, but not overly difficult, with scenic views of the lake at every turn. You’re riding and running right next to the water, and there’s even a frisbee golf course and fishermen along the way to keep it interesting. The trails feel natural and welcoming, not intimidating.

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The energy at Hagg Lake on race weekend is fantastic. The organizers are serious athletes themselves, and even their kids join the kids triathlon. You’ll see dogs, families, campers, food, drinks, and sunshine — all wrapped up in the inclusive XTERRA family vibe. Every year we all beg for this race to continue because there are so few XTERRAs left in the US, and this is the only one in the WA, OR, ID, and northern CA area.

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If you’re visiting, check out the food spots in downtown Forest Grove — the college town atmosphere adds charm, with plenty of good eats to enjoy post-race.

Prachatice is truly a special place. The natural setting is beautiful, offering an active holiday for everyone — cycling, running, swimming, hiking — it’s all here. The forests, meadows, and hills make it feel both wild and welcoming at the same time. It’s no wonder people come here not just to race but to spend a whole week enjoying the surroundings.

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I’ve been fortunate to win my age group here several times, and each of those wins was special. Every time I stand on the start line at Kristanovicky Lake, I feel both nervous and proud — proud because this is my home country, and nervous because the race itself is very demanding.

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The swim is in the crystal-clear waters of Křišťanovice pond, surrounded by trees, calm yet charged with energy from the crowds. The bike course is truly challenging, with sections that climb old tank roads from the 1960s, slick singletrack through the Golden Salt Path forest, and fast descents that really test your skills. The run is no easier — hilly, with uneven terrain, through fields and forests, before finishing in the heart of the historic town square of Prachatice. The second transition and the finish line in the square are amazing moments — it feels like a festival, with music, cheering, and history all around you.

The terrain is fair but tough — hilly tracks with a variable profile and significant elevation gain. You need to be ready for sharp climbs, fast technical sections, and changing conditions. But it’s honest racing, and the landscape keeps you motivated the entire time.

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The atmosphere during race week is fantastic. I always meet so many friends here, both from the Czech Republic and from abroad. It feels like the whole town comes alive to welcome the XTERRA family. The afterparty is legendary — everybody gathers in the square after the race to celebrate late into the night.

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And of course, no visit to the Czech Republic would be complete without trying some of our traditional food. You should taste any Czech dish — svíčková, goulash, dumplings — and be sure to enjoy it with our world-famous beer. It’s the perfect way to celebrate finishing a hard race.

The Gileppe Dam area, right in the heart of the Belgian High Fens, is simply perfect for outdoor adventure. It’s wild, green, and rugged — ideal for mountain biking, trail running, or just getting lost in nature. I often train there, and the mix of technical trails, steep climbs, and wide forest paths keeps every session interesting. You never get bored here because every turn brings a new challenge or a breathtaking view.

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I have a lot of personal memories tied to this region. Last year, finishing second at XTERRA Ardennes was a big moment for me. The atmosphere, the support, and the course itself all came together perfectly. Whether I’m training solo in silence or racing hard in front of the crowds, the Ardennes always push me to go all-in. It’s a place that makes you work but also gives a lot back in beauty and satisfaction.

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What makes the XTERRA Ardennes course stand out is how well it blends natural beauty with a real challenge. The swim in the Gileppe Reservoir is calm and scenic, surrounded by thick forests that seem to watch over you. The bike course is a proper gravel ride — long, straight gravel roads, mixed with technical touches, punchy climbs, and fast descents that keep your focus dialed in. It feels wild but manageable. The trail run is pure Ardennes: singletracks through woods, roots, rocks, mud, and some tough elevation that really tests your legs and your mind. You feel completely immersed in the landscape the whole way.

Race weekend has a very special energy. The start/finish zone at the dam is buzzing with athletes, spectators, and volunteers — it feels like a big outdoor family gathering. There are races all weekend for everyone, and it’s inspiring to see so many kids and beginners lining up next to experienced racers. Don’t forget to take the elevator up the dam tower — the 360-degree view over the lake and surrounding valley is absolutely worth it.

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Nearby villages like Jalhay have a laid-back charm where you can relax, refuel, and enjoy some Belgian hospitality after the race. I’d definitely recommend trying local specialties like boulets à la Liégeoise with Belgian fries, a cold La Chouffe or another local beer, and if you’re lucky, some homemade tarte au riz. And take the time to hike in the High Fens — it’s a unique landscape, unlike anywhere else in Belgium, with its vast heathlands, wetlands, and rolling hills.

Thunder Bay, on the north shore of Lake Superior, is a paradise for outdoor sports. We’re surrounded by boreal forest in three directions for hundreds of kilometers, and right in town we have towering cliffs, whitewater rivers, and dramatic lake views. Our event was originally held in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park — a large, remote, and beautiful park about an hour outside the city — and I still recommend visitors check it out if they can. But a few years ago we moved XTERRA Sleeping Giant to Thunder Bay itself to showcase our exceptional trail network at Trowbridge Forest. Over $2 million has been invested into these world-class mountain bike and recreation trails in the past six years, and they’ve even hosted the Canadian XCM Championship twice. We use elements of that same championship course for XTERRA, which makes for an incredible experience.

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I’ve raced XTERRA Sleeping Giant since its first year in 2014, when I was completely new to triathlon and endurance sports. In the early days the course was brutally hard — the run was a 16K out-and-back that dropped steeply downhill for 8K and then climbed straight back up. My only goal the first year was not to walk, and I barely managed it. Since then the distances have been aligned to international standards, but that memory of suffering up that climb still stands out to me. For those who want maximum bragging rights today, we still offer the “Full G” category — the triathlon plus an additional half marathon — which really tests your grit. Just make sure you finish while the beer tent and food vendors are still open.

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The swim is held in Boulevard Lake right in the middle of town. It’s a sandy beach start and perfect for beginners — less intimidating than some big open-water venues. The lake is actually a dammed section of the Current River, so on the lap you feel a light current that helps push you back to shore on the way back. The water is cool but rarely cold enough to make wetsuits mandatory.

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The bike course is the crown jewel. It mixes green and blue trails that are approachable for beginners yet still a blast for experts. There are even optional features off to the side for riders who want to catch some air or ride more technical lines. Highlights include the Lookout Trail — which winds along the red rock mesa with sweeping views of the Sleeping Giant across the harbour — and Magma Day, a flowy downhill trail full of berms and tabletops. It’s just pure fun on a bike. The run course is equally memorable, with rolling hills and technical trails like the 2K trail, which keeps you on your toes with its roots, rocks, and classic northern terrain.

The whole venue has that uniquely Northern Ontario character: red rock mesas, mixed forests of poplar, birch, and pine, rivers, falls, and slab rock. Moving the race into the city brought more spectators, more energy, and more opportunities for locals to participate and cheer on the racers. The support from the community really adds to the experience.

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Thunder Bay itself has a high-level athletic culture, home to the National Development Centre for cross-country skiing, and you can feel that energy on race weekend. There’s serious competition at the front, but also plenty of beginners and first-timers, so everyone feels welcome. Local vendors, food trucks, and breweries contribute to the festival atmosphere at the finish line, and the vibe is friendly and inclusive.

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After the race, treat yourself to one of our famous “Persians” — a unique local pastry you’ll find at Persian Man — and don’t miss a pint at one of our excellent local breweries. If you have more time, explore sights like Mount McKay, the Nor’Wester Mountains, Silver Falls, or Kakabeka Falls (the Niagara of the North). Even though we don’t race at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park anymore, it’s still worth the trip to hike and see our namesake landmark up close. For unique local goods, stop by the Farmers Market on Saturday or Goods & Co downtown.

The impressive backdrop of rocks and forests in the Three-Country Border Triangle of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland extends across the borders, offering incredible panoramic views over all three nations in the Zittau Mountains. What's truly special about this region is its nature as an inactive volcanic area. This fact, coupled with the last eruption nearly 30 million years ago, has sculpted unique rock formations from a mixture of lava and sandstone.

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In comparison, the Olbersdorf Lake, where the swimming takes place, is quite young. It was formed only about 30 years ago, on the site of a former lignite mine. Around these natural highlights, numerous hiking trails have been established, and major long-distance mountain biking routes also originate here.

Racing in Zittau is always fantastic, and after eight participations, I’ve gained a lot of experience and even more cherished memories. The most beautiful, however, are always the camaraderie and strong community spirit. My most incredible World Championship title victory (out of five in total) was definitely in Zittau in 2014 — but not just because of the win itself. It was because the first three amateurs in the race were all very close friends of mine. We not only shared the amateur podium together, but each of us also won our respective age categories. We embraced each other then, covered in mud, and simply savored the moment.

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Another wonderful memory was when I got a flat tire after “Steiniger Weg” (the last downhill section of the course) — essentially on my way home. My age-group rival stopped, despite our ongoing fight for Hawaii qualification, and gave me his repair kit. He qualified for Hawaii, and I was able to finish my race. Eternal gratitude to Florian Badoux!

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The swim is usually wetsuit-free, which I always prefer. The Australian Exit after 750 meters is spectator-friendly, and you’re roared and cheered on into the second lap. The bike course is a tough, long, and challenging one for XTERRA. The trails offer an excellent mix of rocks and roots, steep climbs, and flowing downhills. The approach to the notorious Hochwald drags on a bit. This section is then blocked with rocks, and only a few can make it up without dismounting. The descent, however, is incredibly rewarding. Further trails then ensure a varied course profile.

The run course, with its change to a two-lap format, has become very varied and winding. In parts, you have to overcome smaller stream beds and feel like you’re running through the undergrowth. All in all, it’s just a lot of fun.

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Large mixed forests and unique rock formations create trails dotted with stones and roots. Add to that the beautifully situated Olbersdorf Lake. If you love nature, you’ll love Zittau. And if you then enjoy a cool drink at one of the “Bauden” (typical Silesian-Bohemian mountain huts), a magical tranquility and inner contentment will unfold, especially during sunrise or sunset.

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For visitors, the town of Zittau itself has a rich historical background, so a stroll through its old town is highly recommended. Those interested in architecture can admire the Umgebinde houses, typical of the Oberlausitz region, in every village. These unique houses combine three different architectural styles in one structure. For spectators seeking a nature experience, I recommend a hike to the Oybin Monastery.

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The vibe around the festival grounds is unique. This is probably because everything is set up specifically for the XTERRA O-SEE. The huge tent, acting as the hub, the wooden curve that’s in the water from Wednesday onwards, the nearby campsite full of athletes, and the relaxed general atmosphere sometimes even make you forget about the competition and feel like you’re on vacation. The heartbeat at the start of each race is also particularly unique. And after the competition? The unforgettable after-race party. Legendary. Often copied, never matched. You simply have to experience it for yourself.

In one word: Wow! If there was ever a mountain town built for an XTERRA event, Ruidoso is it. This place just screams outdoors, adventure, fun, and excitement — and yes, even wild. Wild as in herds of wild horses roaming freely in and around town, which is one of the coolest sights you can imagine.

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Ruidoso is truly an all-seasons town, with skiing and snow activities in the winter and endless summer and fall adventures. You can ride the Screaming Eagle mountain coaster, go ziplining, tube down the river, or just stroll the charming downtown filled with murals, shops, and colorful New Mexican culture. The hospitality here is genuine, and the pride they take in their traditions shows everywhere you look.

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The course can be summed up in three words: Beautiful, Fun, Challenging.

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The swim in Grindstone Lake is cool and clear, with constant activity around you — hikers, bikers, horseback riders, fishermen, even paddle boats dotting the water. At altitude, with the lake sitting over 7,000 feet, it’s a refreshing and stunning start to the race.

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The bike course is where things get serious. The opening singletrack is tight and rocky, demanding skill and focus right away, before you hit a steady climb up to a high mesa at nearly 7,800 feet. The ascent is tough but rewarding, winding through scenic trails edged with thick brush like little gremlins guarding the path. Once you reach the top, the trail flows through curves, smooth rock, and loose shale before plunging into a fast, technical descent full of switchbacks, sharp turns, and loose terrain. Weather here can change quickly, so be prepared — on my pre-ride it was perfect, but wind or rain could make it much harder. This is a one-loop ride for the Full Distance, with plenty to challenge experts and something for everyone to enjoy.

The run starts at the lake, weaving through rocky singletrack that tests even the best runners over the first 75 percent. You then descend past the disc golf course and back through quiet neighborhood streets before finishing at the park in town. The downhill finish, with music blaring and families cheering, makes for an unforgettable moment.

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The entire weekend is shaping up to be an epic experience. Ruidoso’s welcoming community, its high-altitude setting, and the XTERRA family all come together perfectly here. I can’t wait to race and see it all in full swing. My advice? Make a full weekend of it — bring your family and friends. There’s plenty for everyone to do and experience.

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And don’t miss the food. I highly recommend the steak fajitas at Garcia’s Cafe and the smash burger at Downshift Brewery, both of which also serve great breakfasts.

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Finally, I have no doubt the people of Ruidoso Village will be excellent hosts this August and again next October when the XTERRA World Championship comes here. Their pride and commitment to the New Mexico way of life are truly special.

XTERRA Costa Rica brings the World Tour to the breathtaking Guanacaste coast, where adventure and culture meet in the car-free town of Las Catalinas. This three-day festival invites athletes and families to experience a weekend of racing, exploration, and connection in one of Central America’s most spectacular settings.

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The swim begins in the warm, calm waters of Playa Danta. Protected by the bay, the ocean here is typically tranquil, making wetsuits optional. Athletes complete a scenic 1.5K loop surrounded by lush tropical hills and the gentle curve of the coastline — a serene start to an unforgettable race.

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The bike course climbs out of town and into the forest reserve above Las Catalinas. Purpose-built mountain bike trails cut through thick jungle, climb into the hills, and trace along dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This section combines technical riding with sustained elevation and sweeping ocean views at nearly every turn.

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The run weaves together the very best of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and Las Catalinas’ unique charm. Athletes cross white-sand beaches, push through shaded forest trails, and descend into the cobblestone streets of the vibrant town center, where music, cheers, and the XTERRA Community await at the finish line.

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XTERRA Costa Rica offers a full experience designed as a safe and welcoming environment for families and spectators. Just 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport, it’s an easy-to-reach destination where the motto of “Pura Vida” is felt in every detail.

Nikko-Shirane, one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains, and the mountainous wetlands of Ozegahara are rich in natural beauty. Mt. Shirane is the highest peak in the Kanto region. The loop course that connects Mt. Shirane, Mt. Maeshirane, Mt. Goshikiyama, and Mt. Konsei runs along the outer rim and features scenic views and varied elevation, making it a popular trail running route. Ozegahara is also highly regarded for its scenery and relatively flat terrain, making it a favorite among hikers. It’s a region where both athletes and casual visitors can fully enjoy nature.

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I first participated in the XTERRA race at Marunuma in its inaugural year, 2004, unknowingly joining the same course as the kids. The day before, during the XTERRA University session, I rode a mountain bike for the first time and entered a trail for the first time. The extraordinary experience was so striking that I became completely hooked on XTERRA from then on — Marunuma holds a very special place in my heart.

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Starting as a complete beginner, it took me five years to finally complete the full-distance race. Marunuma’s trails are not permanently accessible, and many are off-limits outside the race, making the course feel like a true adventure. You can only run it during race season, so even the practice runs feel special. I’ve even overdone practice in the past and ended up completely exhausted on race day.

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Marunuma, the swim course, is a lake with exceptionally clear water that appears emerald green. It’s usually open to anglers. With its high elevation and flowing spring water, some areas are quite cold and even feel mysteriously eerie. However, during the swim, the shimmering surface of the lake contrasting with the deep green of the surrounding forest is breathtakingly beautiful.

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The bike course is packed with challenges: an extremely difficult lakeside section that requires carrying your bike, long climbs along forest roads that test your patience, and fun downhills in a loop. For athletes not used to trail riding, it’s critical to judge when to dismount and walk instead of pushing too hard. Every year, someone ends up falling into the lake in the lakeside section. Getting back on the course alone is tough, so mutual support between athletes is essential. Safety comes first — it’s the surest path to finishing.

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The run course includes paved sections, but also rocky paths by the lake, jungle areas with rope sections, stream climbs, and tunnels through large drainage pipes. It’s the most adventure-packed part of the race. Since you’ll be traversing unmarked terrain, practice runs are a must — but the course is complex enough that you won’t memorize everything in one go. Above all, don’t miss the course markings.

The race venue, Kankoso, offers full support for accommodation, meals, and bathing — all in one location. What makes it even more special is the warm hospitality of the staff, who have been supporting XTERRA for many years. Every time we come back, it feels like returning home.

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With the start, finish, transition area, and party venue all in one place, Marunuma is a rare location where you can interact with the XTERRA family not just during the party, but throughout the entire weekend. It’s also an ideal environment for families coming to support the athletes.

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At Kankoso’s dining spot “Kohantei,” the charcoal-grilled yamame trout is a must-try. The local specialty, maitake mushrooms, are also delicious when served as tempura.

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Next to the venue is the Marunuma Kogen ski resort, which offers various activities even in summer — take the lift up for a scenic walk, enjoy the go-karts, or go auto-camping. After enjoying the nature of Mt. Shirane and Ozegahara, consider heading to Nikko to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nikko Toshogu Shrine — a highly recommended cultural detour.

Bromont is just a beautiful place. The trails are challenging, with a lot of elevation changes, which makes the bike course difficult — at least for me! The running course has a beautiful section in the woods that is pleasant to run through. I really like it. Being at the equestrian park is a great playground that offers many possibilities for the race director, but it’s still a challenge because the lake is a little further away, so there are two transition areas. You can’t forget anything!

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Once again, our XTERRA competitions are very family-oriented for us. Each time, it’s our opportunity to take a week’s vacation with the family. We spend the week at Camping Bromont with our trailer. We can take the time to have fun and practice the courses because the campground is very close by. It’s always a wonderful week that leads up to the race on Sunday.

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Bromont is no walk in the park, but that’s what XTERRA is all about. It’s tough, but we’re so proud when we cross the finish line. And there’s usually a food truck serving up an excellent post-race meal. The atmosphere is perfect. The volunteers are dedicated.

The Lipno Lake and Šumava Mountains area is ideal for outdoor adventures thanks to the combination of water, mountains, and endless forests. It offers varied year-round opportunities for recreation — from hiking, cycling, and water sports to winter cross-country skiing and skiing. An extensive network of trails, beautiful nature, and cross-border experiences make it the perfect place for active holidays and sporting challenges.

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I really enjoy coming back to XTERRA Šumava — I have been visiting Lipno since childhood and have a strong relationship with it. I like that you can swim, cycle, and run here, all in one place, in the beautiful Šumava countryside. I like to challenge myself to go around Lipno all the way, or come to swim when the wind is blowing — it’s a great workout, like being at the sea. As an ideal base, I recommend the Knížecí Cesta resort, which is located right at the start and finish of the race. It’s a smaller, quiet place with pleasantly luxurious apartments and great facilities for regeneration — the sauna, steam, and whirlpool really come in handy here. And breakfast? I recommend coming hungry — you won’t know what to eat first!

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The XTERRA Šumava routes perfectly combine the beauty of Šumava nature with off-road adventure. You swim in Lipno Lake, starting directly from the water and completing one longer circuit. The bike section is two 35K loops, mainly along wide gravel and forest roads around the Schwarzenberg Canal — ideal for gravel bikes, but also good on solid mountain bikes. The final run is also two laps, on forest and paved roads, with slight elevation gain. This makes the race fast but physically demanding — perfect for those who like a combination of endurance, pace, and nature.

The atmosphere during the XTERRA Šumava weekend is friendly, lively, and at the same time exceptionally relaxed — exactly in the Šumava style. The start and finish are right next to Lipno, in the picturesque Bližší Lhota, where everything takes place close together — depot, race, refreshments, and accommodation — which creates a compact and community environment.

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Athletes of all levels meet here — from professional triathletes to hobby racers, entire families, and spectators who cheer on the track or just enjoy the atmosphere by the water. There’s determination and joy in the air, and yet you’re never in a rush — the surroundings invite you to walk, swim, have something good to eat, or just enjoy nature. The whole weekend feels like an active holiday with a race in the middle, and even though it’s a challenging triathlon, there’s a calm, welcoming energy that makes racers happy to return. I always bring my family so they can support me from the hotel and enjoy the activities as they please.

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I would definitely recommend stopping by Kynutá buchta in Horní Planá — a small family business with a warm atmosphere, where you can enjoy a genuine homemade bun with poppy seed, cottage cheese, or jam, perfect with a coffee after the race. For something savory, the Hůrka Fish Restaurant is a great place to taste fresh fish straight from local waters, offering both traditional and modern preparations. Another favorite is Restaurant Stodola Lipno, where modern South Bohemian cuisine is served with a view of the lake — it’s a stylish spot for a relaxed dinner with friends or family. And if you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir, I recommend the Hornoplánská dove — a traditional wooden carving from Šumava that symbolizes delicacy, craftsmanship, and local tradition.

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For me, it is definitely a beautiful place, not only for the race, but one that I will always be happy to return to.