Yoann Stuck Talks Effort, Exploration, and the XTERRA World Championship in Eryri

From smoky bars and late nights to starting lines and summits, Yoann Stuck has never done things halfway. In 2010, he was a pack-a-day smoker working two jobs, more familiar with beer than kilometers. But one exhausting 25-minute jog in Avignon changed everything, setting him on a path toward balance, endurance, and a deep connection to nature through trail running.

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Now, fifteen years later, the French ultrarunner brings that journey to Eryri National Park, where he’ll line up at the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship to race in Wales against a global field. Stuck sees more than just competition ahead as he embraces the chance to experience a bucket-list trail destination, connect with his newfound XTERRA Community, and test himself on the climb toward the breathtaking summit of Yr Wyddfa.

Raised in Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne in southern France by a hard-working single mother, Stuck learned early the value of perseverance. After that first exhausting run through Avignon in 2010, he moved to Lyon, where he left the roads behind and discovered the quiet trails of Monts d’Or, Monts du Lyonnais, Beaujolais, and the Alps. Trail running gave him a way to reconnect with himself, feel small in nature, and share meaningful experiences with others.

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Over the next decade he rebuilt his body, mind, and career, earning victories at the Marathon des Sables Atlantic Coast, the Wings for Life World Run, and most recently the XTERRA Zhangjiajie Trail Run, where he qualified for the 2025 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship. Ahead of his championship debut in Wales, we spoke with Yoann about his love of the trails and what keeps him coming back for more.

How does this World Championship feel different from other races you’ve done, and what are your expectations heading into Wales?

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“For me, the whole concept of XTERRA is fascinating because there’s a mindset here that’s hard to find elsewhere. From my very first XTERRA event in Zhangjiajie, I was struck by how warm and welcoming everyone was — both the organizers and the athletes. There’s a lightness and a playful energy at these races that you don’t always feel elsewhere. Trail running can sometimes feel very serious, almost rigid, but XTERRA manages to keep the atmosphere open and joyful. It’s competitive, of course, but it also feels very human.

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Heading into Wales, I feel really good. This will actually be my first trail race of the year, which adds a little extra excitement and even some nerves. I’ve been looking forward to pinning on a bib again, opening this new chapter, and seeing what the trails in Eryri National Park have in store.”

Can you describe the vibe of an XTERRA race weekend?

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“It’s a party — pure and simple. You push yourself as hard as you can on the course, and then afterwards you share the moment with everyone else. That mix of effort and celebration is something I’ve come to really appreciate. You feel like you’re part of something bigger, not just a competitor but part of a community that enjoys every second together.

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When I’m racing, especially in places like Zhangjiajie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, or hopefully this weekend in Wales, I feel completely free. At the same time, I stay focused because I always want to perform my best. But there’s this incredible sense of connection to the moment — almost like nothing else exists. That freedom, that ability to lose yourself in the effort while still being very aware, is exactly what keeps me coming back.”

What is it about trail running that speaks to you the most?

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“Trail running feels like a completely different sport. On trails you have to stay connected to your body and the ground beneath you. Every climb, descent, and turn is unique, and you’re always adjusting to the terrain. It’s not about chasing a number or staring at your watch. On the road you fall into a rhythm and try to hold a pace. On the trails you’re chasing elevation, chasing sensations. It feels alive, unpredictable, and much more authentic."

“It’s not about chasing a number or staring at your watch.”

"There’s also a big difference in the atmosphere. On the trails, especially at XTERRA events, people really look out for each other. You see it at every level, from the front to the back of the pack that runners offer encouragement.”

Does travel and discovery feel just as important as the competition?

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“Definitely. For me, every race is an exploration, not just of the place but of myself. Even during a race, I often slip into a sort of meditative state, feeling fully present and connected. Before a race, I love meeting the local runners, volunteers, and organizers, and just seeing the area on foot. Afterward, I make a point of tasting the food, sharing a beer, and soaking up the culture. Every culture teaches you something if you keep an open mind.”

How do you balance trail running with everyday life?

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“The most important thing is to stay organized and surround yourself with people who understand your passion. Running is one of the most important of the secondary things in life — but it’s still secondary. Family, relationships, and mental health come first. I remind myself of that often."

“Family, relationships, and mental health come first. I remind myself of that often”

"Sharing my journey also helps me stay grounded, because it’s about more than just me.”

How do you feel about having mindfulness and community events as part of race week?

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“I love it. Taking the time to slow down, connect with the place, and feel grounded before a race is really powerful. Those moments help calm the stress of competition and make you feel like you belong to the land you’re about to run on. I think it also helps runners respect the trails more — to see themselves as caretakers of the places they visit. The community outings are often my favorite part because you share something timeless with people who love what you love. Those moments stay with you long after the race is over.”

Yoann’s story reminds us that the trail doesn’t just change your fitness — it changes your perspective. From Avignon to Eryri, his journey speaks to the power of second chances, self-discovery, and the people we meet along the way. For more stories from runners preparing for this ultimate challenge in Eryri, check out the Why We Run series, featuring voices of the 2025 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship. And if you’re feeling inspired, find your own path with the XTERRA Trail Run World Series.