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The 2025 XTERRA World Cup charges into Prachatice for Stop 6 of 8, where the world’s top off-road triathletes are set to throw down in a high-stakes doubleheader. From August 6-10, the Czech Republic hosts one of the biggest weeks of the year, with World Cup points up for grabs in both the Full Distance and Short Track triathlons, 58 World Championship qualifying slots available for age groupers, a €26,000 Elite prize purse on the line, and a livestream of Sunday’s Short Track race.
This iconic venue has been part of the XTERRA World Cup since its inception in 2023, and for the first time, it also serves as the official 2025 Europe Triathlon Cross Triathlon and Duathlon Championship. The Full Distance and Short Track events are the main attractions, but they’re surrounded by Sprint and Super Sprint races that serve as XTERRA Youth Tour qualifiers for next month’s Youth World Championship in Trentino, Italy. Youth A (14–15) athletes will take on the Super Sprint, while Youth B (16–17) and Junior (18–19) athletes race the Sprint.
This is the oldest event on the XTERRA World Tour and an athlete favorite with its gala dinner, food stalls, yoga sessions, and packed music festival adding to the energy that fills the historic town square. With kids’ events like the Junior Duathlon and Kids Triathlon, the week in Prachatice offers something for every generation and reflects the kind of passion that keeps families and communities at the heart of it all.
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Local leaders and European triathlon officials reflect on the legacy and meaning of XTERRA Czech. “Prachatice is home to the oldest event on the XTERRA circuit, a venue rich with off-road history and passion,” said Marc D’Hooge, President of Europe Triathlon. “Since 2002, the course has challenged and inspired athletes from all over the world. We are thrilled to continue that legacy with the 2025 European Championships. Whether you're competing in cross triathlon or cross duathlon, you're part of a movement that blends endurance and nature.”
South Bohemian Governor Martin Kuba praised the event for its connection to the region’s character. “In the South Bohemian region, I welcome every sporting event that rings movement, emotion, and the joy of healthy competition,” he said. “I am all the more pleased that it is Prachatice that hosts XTERRA Czech, a world-class race that combines the beauty of nature with the demands of Elite sport.” That sense of pride was echoed by Jan Bauer, Mayor of Prachatice: “I'm pleased that a valuable partnership has developed in our town between an attractive sporting event and the equally attractive backdrop of hills and Renaissance architecture.”
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XTERRA first landed in the Czech Republic in 2002, with its debut in the castle town of Hluboká nad Vltavou marking the arrival of off-road triathlon in Eastern Europe for the very first time. Spearheaded by Michal Piloušek Sr., who had raced in Maui and dreamed of bringing XTERRA home, the inaugural event laid the foundation for what would become the oldest continually running XTERRA race in the world. After hosting the first-ever XTERRA European Championship in 2004, the event briefly moved north to the alpine terrain of Špindlerův Mlýn (2009–2010) before finding a permanent home in Prachatice in 2011.
Now in its 22nd edition, XTERRA Czech continues to evolve while holding onto what makes it meaningful. When Michal Piloušek Jr. took over leadership from his father, he brought a new level of creativity that helped shape the future of the event. In 2019, Prachatice hosted the first XTERRA Short Track, a compact and fast-paced format created to engage spectators and designed for a global viewing audience. This is a race that is broadcast live on Sunday, August 10 as the atmosphere builds day by day leading up to a showdown where the world’s best compete for a maximum of 75 points to add to their World Cup tally. The result of this history and hard work is an experience that continues to draw the XTERRA community back year after year.
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XTERRA Czech delivers a point-to-point journey through the forests, hills, and historic heart of South Bohemia. The race begins with a 1.5K swim in the clear waters of Křišťanovický Lake. “It’s surrounded by trees, calm yet charged with energy from the crowds,” says František Bulava (CZE, 55-59). The 33K bike course climbs old tank roads from the 1960s, cuts through singletrack in the Golden Salt Path forest, and descends on fast sections that reward skill and focus. The 10.5K trail run is hilly and uneven, passing through open meadows and shaded woods before dropping into the cobblestone streets of Prachatice.
Bulava, a multiple-time age group winner, calls it “honest racing.” He explains, “The terrain is fair but tough. You need to be ready for sharp climbs, fast technical sections, and changing conditions.” For many, part of the reward is in the setting itself. “Prachatice is truly a special place,” he says. “The forests, meadows, and hills make it feel both wild and welcoming.” And when the course empties into the town square for the final stretch, it all comes together with music, cheering, and a strong sense of arrival.
.jpg)
With four scoring opportunities remaining, the XTERRA World Cup is heading into its final stretch. This weekend in the Czech Republic, athletes will race for up to 175 points across two events: 100 in the Full Distance and 75 in the Short Track. Next week, the European Championship in Germany offers another 100 points. The final opportunity comes September 25 in Trentino, Italy, where the season-ending Short Track showdown will decide the standings just two days before the World Championship.
In the men’s standings, Arthur Forissier (FRA) currently leads with 498 points, but Michele Bonacina (ITA) is close behind with 468, followed by Felix Forissier (FRA) at 467. The margin is tight, and everything is still in play. Felix has been nearly flawless in full-distance racing. After missing the opening round, he won in Greece, Weston Park, Oak Mountain, and Quebec, with his only second-place result coming in the Short Track at Oak Mountain. The biggest challenge ahead could be Jens Emil Sloth Nielsen (DNK), winner of the opening stop in Australia, who now returns after spending time exploring road triathlon. “Everyone involved, including the organizers, the volunteers, and the city, has truly embraced XTERRA and the off-road culture,” said Sloth Nielsen. “It is a great race, always competitive, and always worth being part of.”
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This weekend also marks the World Cup debut of three-time XTERRA World Champion Arthur Serrières (FRA), who has been carefully preparing after recovering from a minor injury earlier this season. His return immediately shifts the landscape. “XTERRA Czech is where I won my first European title,” said Serrières. “And it’s a location I love because it’s old, scenic, and beautiful. It’s a small village with a lot to offer, and you always feel welcome. The race course is really natural and wild too.”
“Every year, the best athletes are there,” said Felix. “And for someone like me who is looking for great battles, it’s an unmissable place.” Arthur Forissier, still holding the top spot on the leaderboard, credited the people and setting for creating something unique. “The atmosphere and the course always push me in the best way. It’s a beautiful country where nature is everywhere. The people make this race even better. The energy from the crowd, the volunteers, the local vibe — it’s always super friendly and supportive.”
Czech hometown favorite Lukáš Kočař (CZE) comments on how this race means everything. “XTERRA Czech in Prachatice is a very personal race for me — it’s practically my home race and where my XTERRA journey began,” he said. “I’ve had tough moments here, but also my best-ever results and the most emotional triathlon experiences of my life. Every year, it reminds me why I love this sport.”
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For the Elite women, Alizée Paties (FRA) has dominated the 2024 XTERRA World Cup season. Her consistency and strength across all stops have kept her at the top of the leaderboard since March. But after sitting out stop 5 in Quebec, the door is open once again. Paties will miss both races in Czech due to injury. She remains hopeful to return at the final stop in Trentino. With Paties temporarily sidelined, Marta Menditto (ITA) has a chance to close the gap. She currently sits second overall with 470 points and will be looking to make every opportunity count.
Her biggest challenge this weekend may come from hometown favorite Aneta Grabmüller (CZE), who finished second here last year and returns with the added motivation of racing in front of her home crowd. A strong swimmer, Grabmüller is likely to be one of the first athletes out of the water, putting pressure on Marta to chase on the bike and run. “XTERRA Czech is very special to me,” said Grabmüller. “I was born and raised in Prachatice. I have watched the race many times, volunteered for the race, wishing I had the level to race myself. I never thought I could race elite, let alone finishing on a podium. But here I am.” A packed Great Square and thousands of local supporters will be cheering her on through every segment of the course.
“It’s been many years since I’ve done XTERRA Czech. I really love the location, the forest is beautiful, and the city is lovely,” said Menditto. “It’s also the best event for having fun after the race!” With recent altitude training and solid preparation, Menditto is ready to race hard. Also in the mix is Isla Hedley (GBR), a rising British talent who impressed with a third-place finish at XTERRA Weston Park and is building a reputation for coming out of the swim near the front. All eyes will be on the lead pack as the women battle for crucial points in the shadow of the Šumava forest.
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While elites chase World Cup points, age groupers arrive in Prachatice with their own goals to qualify for next month’s XTERRA World Championship, to test themselves on a legendary course, and to share the trail with friends. Arnold Eibensteiner (AUT, 40–44) returns from nearby Mühlviertel with a simple plan: ride hard and enjoy it. “It’s not so hilly, just like my home, and the trails make it a lot of fun. I come with my friends, have fun, and also enjoy a beer or two at the finish line.” Cristiana Pallucca (ITA, 30–34), who placed second in her age group at XTERRA Lake Scanno in 2024, is here for her Czech debut. “It’s one of the oldest races on the circuit, and it has a technical and very fun bike section.”
Loren Ward (GBR, 35–39), winner of her age group this year at XTERRA Weston Park, was drawn by the history and challenge of this venue. “I thought how special it would be to go and experience somewhere with such history. The technical element is super appealing and exciting for me.” With back-to-back European events in Czech and Germany, and world championship slots on the line, these athletes are racing with purpose but also embracing the shared joy that attracts athletes to the off-road experience.
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XTERRA Czech also serves as a key qualifier for young athletes aiming to reach the XTERRA Youth World Championship. The Youth Sprint Triathlon (500M swim, 12K bike, 4K run) takes place on August 9 and is open to Youth B (16-17) and Junior (18-19) athletes. The Super Sprint Triathlon (200M swim, 6K bike, 2K run) follows on August 10 for Youth A (14-15) competitors. Both formats offer challenging courses that give the next generation a chance to gain valuable experience and qualify for the global stage in Trentino this September.
Among the international Youth B athletes racing this weekend are Konstantin Stoev (DEU), Ema Kolenikova (SVK), and Boróka Zilahy (HUN). “For me, challenging myself and trying to become a better athlete makes XTERRA special,” said Stoev. “Each location comes with a new unique challenge.” Kolenikova is excited for her debut in Prachatice: “It is a completely new adventure that I have chosen to improve my experience with cross triathlon. I am looking forward to joining my peers in Prachatice for an epic race!” Zilahy added, “I have never raced in Czech yet. It’s really exciting to take part in XTERRA.” These athletes represent the future of the sport and bring fresh energy to a course steeped in history.
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From the Elites battling for World Cup points to the age groupers chasing personal goals, and from the rising youth athletes to the volunteers lining the course, everyone plays a role in what makes this weekend matter. The trails are ready and the Great Square in Prachatice is waiting for all the live action, including Sunday’s Short Track worldwide broadcast, and all the stories that will be captured on Instagram at @xterraeurope.
The 2025 XTERRA World Cup charges into Prachatice for Stop 6 of 8, where the world’s top off-road triathletes are set to throw down in a high-stakes doubleheader. From August 6-10, the Czech Republic hosts one of the biggest weeks of the year, with World Cup points up for grabs in both the Full Distance and Short Track triathlons, 58 World Championship qualifying slots available for age groupers, a €26,000 Elite prize purse on the line, and a livestream of Sunday’s Short Track race.
This iconic venue has been part of the XTERRA World Cup since its inception in 2023, and for the first time, it also serves as the official 2025 Europe Triathlon Cross Triathlon and Duathlon Championship. The Full Distance and Short Track events are the main attractions, but they’re surrounded by Sprint and Super Sprint races that serve as XTERRA Youth Tour qualifiers for next month’s Youth World Championship in Trentino, Italy. Youth A (14–15) athletes will take on the Super Sprint, while Youth B (16–17) and Junior (18–19) athletes race the Sprint.
This is the oldest event on the XTERRA World Tour and an athlete favorite with its gala dinner, food stalls, yoga sessions, and packed music festival adding to the energy that fills the historic town square. With kids’ events like the Junior Duathlon and Kids Triathlon, the week in Prachatice offers something for every generation and reflects the kind of passion that keeps families and communities at the heart of it all.
Local leaders and European triathlon officials reflect on the legacy and meaning of XTERRA Czech. “Prachatice is home to the oldest event on the XTERRA circuit, a venue rich with off-road history and passion,” said Marc D’Hooge, President of Europe Triathlon. “Since 2002, the course has challenged and inspired athletes from all over the world. We are thrilled to continue that legacy with the 2025 European Championships. Whether you're competing in cross triathlon or cross duathlon, you're part of a movement that blends endurance and nature.”
South Bohemian Governor Martin Kuba praised the event for its connection to the region’s character. “In the South Bohemian region, I welcome every sporting event that rings movement, emotion, and the joy of healthy competition,” he said. “I am all the more pleased that it is Prachatice that hosts XTERRA Czech, a world-class race that combines the beauty of nature with the demands of Elite sport.” That sense of pride was echoed by Jan Bauer, Mayor of Prachatice: “I'm pleased that a valuable partnership has developed in our town between an attractive sporting event and the equally attractive backdrop of hills and Renaissance architecture.”
XTERRA first landed in the Czech Republic in 2002, with its debut in the castle town of Hluboká nad Vltavou marking the arrival of off-road triathlon in Eastern Europe for the very first time. Spearheaded by Michal Piloušek Sr., who had raced in Maui and dreamed of bringing XTERRA home, the inaugural event laid the foundation for what would become the oldest continually running XTERRA race in the world. After hosting the first-ever XTERRA European Championship in 2004, the event briefly moved north to the alpine terrain of Špindlerův Mlýn (2009–2010) before finding a permanent home in Prachatice in 2011.
Now in its 22nd edition, XTERRA Czech continues to evolve while holding onto what makes it meaningful. When Michal Piloušek Jr. took over leadership from his father, he brought a new level of creativity that helped shape the future of the event. In 2019, Prachatice hosted the first XTERRA Short Track, a compact and fast-paced format created to engage spectators and designed for a global viewing audience. This is a race that is broadcast live on Sunday, August 10 as the atmosphere builds day by day leading up to a showdown where the world’s best compete for a maximum of 75 points to add to their World Cup tally. The result of this history and hard work is an experience that continues to draw the XTERRA community back year after year.
XTERRA Czech delivers a point-to-point journey through the forests, hills, and historic heart of South Bohemia. The race begins with a 1.5K swim in the clear waters of Křišťanovický Lake. “It’s surrounded by trees, calm yet charged with energy from the crowds,” says František Bulava (CZE, 55-59). The 33K bike course climbs old tank roads from the 1960s, cuts through singletrack in the Golden Salt Path forest, and descends on fast sections that reward skill and focus. The 10.5K trail run is hilly and uneven, passing through open meadows and shaded woods before dropping into the cobblestone streets of Prachatice.
Bulava, a multiple-time age group winner, calls it “honest racing.” He explains, “The terrain is fair but tough. You need to be ready for sharp climbs, fast technical sections, and changing conditions.” For many, part of the reward is in the setting itself. “Prachatice is truly a special place,” he says. “The forests, meadows, and hills make it feel both wild and welcoming.” And when the course empties into the town square for the final stretch, it all comes together with music, cheering, and a strong sense of arrival.
With four scoring opportunities remaining, the XTERRA World Cup is heading into its final stretch. This weekend in the Czech Republic, athletes will race for up to 175 points across two events: 100 in the Full Distance and 75 in the Short Track. Next week, the European Championship in Germany offers another 100 points. The final opportunity comes September 25 in Trentino, Italy, where the season-ending Short Track showdown will decide the standings just two days before the World Championship.
In the men’s standings, Arthur Forissier (FRA) currently leads with 498 points, but Michele Bonacina (ITA) is close behind with 468, followed by Felix Forissier (FRA) at 467. The margin is tight, and everything is still in play. Felix has been nearly flawless in full-distance racing. After missing the opening round, he won in Greece, Weston Park, Oak Mountain, and Quebec, with his only second-place result coming in the Short Track at Oak Mountain. The biggest challenge ahead could be Jens Emil Sloth Nielsen (DNK), winner of the opening stop in Australia, who now returns after spending time exploring road triathlon. “Everyone involved, including the organizers, the volunteers, and the city, has truly embraced XTERRA and the off-road culture,” said Sloth Nielsen. “It is a great race, always competitive, and always worth being part of.”
This weekend also marks the World Cup debut of three-time XTERRA World Champion Arthur Serrières (FRA), who has been carefully preparing after recovering from a minor injury earlier this season. His return immediately shifts the landscape. “XTERRA Czech is where I won my first European title,” said Serrières. “And it’s a location I love because it’s old, scenic, and beautiful. It’s a small village with a lot to offer, and you always feel welcome. The race course is really natural and wild too.”
“Every year, the best athletes are there,” said Felix. “And for someone like me who is looking for great battles, it’s an unmissable place.” Arthur Forissier, still holding the top spot on the leaderboard, credited the people and setting for creating something unique. “The atmosphere and the course always push me in the best way. It’s a beautiful country where nature is everywhere. The people make this race even better. The energy from the crowd, the volunteers, the local vibe — it’s always super friendly and supportive.”
Czech hometown favorite Lukáš Kočař (CZE) comments on how this race means everything. “XTERRA Czech in Prachatice is a very personal race for me — it’s practically my home race and where my XTERRA journey began,” he said. “I’ve had tough moments here, but also my best-ever results and the most emotional triathlon experiences of my life. Every year, it reminds me why I love this sport.”
For the Elite women, Alizée Paties (FRA) has dominated the 2024 XTERRA World Cup season. Her consistency and strength across all stops have kept her at the top of the leaderboard since March. But after sitting out stop 5 in Quebec, the door is open once again. Paties will miss both races in Czech due to injury. She remains hopeful to return at the final stop in Trentino. With Paties temporarily sidelined, Marta Menditto (ITA) has a chance to close the gap. She currently sits second overall with 470 points and will be looking to make every opportunity count.
Her biggest challenge this weekend may come from hometown favorite Aneta Grabmüller (CZE), who finished second here last year and returns with the added motivation of racing in front of her home crowd. A strong swimmer, Grabmüller is likely to be one of the first athletes out of the water, putting pressure on Marta to chase on the bike and run. “XTERRA Czech is very special to me,” said Grabmüller. “I was born and raised in Prachatice. I have watched the race many times, volunteered for the race, wishing I had the level to race myself. I never thought I could race elite, let alone finishing on a podium. But here I am.” A packed Great Square and thousands of local supporters will be cheering her on through every segment of the course.
“It’s been many years since I’ve done XTERRA Czech. I really love the location, the forest is beautiful, and the city is lovely,” said Menditto. “It’s also the best event for having fun after the race!” With recent altitude training and solid preparation, Menditto is ready to race hard. Also in the mix is Isla Hedley (GBR), a rising British talent who impressed with a third-place finish at XTERRA Weston Park and is building a reputation for coming out of the swim near the front. All eyes will be on the lead pack as the women battle for crucial points in the shadow of the Šumava forest.
While elites chase World Cup points, age groupers arrive in Prachatice with their own goals to qualify for next month’s XTERRA World Championship, to test themselves on a legendary course, and to share the trail with friends. Arnold Eibensteiner (AUT, 40–44) returns from nearby Mühlviertel with a simple plan: ride hard and enjoy it. “It’s not so hilly, just like my home, and the trails make it a lot of fun. I come with my friends, have fun, and also enjoy a beer or two at the finish line.” Cristiana Pallucca (ITA, 30–34), who placed second in her age group at XTERRA Lake Scanno in 2024, is here for her Czech debut. “It’s one of the oldest races on the circuit, and it has a technical and very fun bike section.”
Loren Ward (GBR, 35–39), winner of her age group this year at XTERRA Weston Park, was drawn by the history and challenge of this venue. “I thought how special it would be to go and experience somewhere with such history. The technical element is super appealing and exciting for me.” With back-to-back European events in Czech and Germany, and world championship slots on the line, these athletes are racing with purpose but also embracing the shared joy that attracts athletes to the off-road experience.
XTERRA Czech also serves as a key qualifier for young athletes aiming to reach the XTERRA Youth World Championship. The Youth Sprint Triathlon (500M swim, 12K bike, 4K run) takes place on August 9 and is open to Youth B (16-17) and Junior (18-19) athletes. The Super Sprint Triathlon (200M swim, 6K bike, 2K run) follows on August 10 for Youth A (14-15) competitors. Both formats offer challenging courses that give the next generation a chance to gain valuable experience and qualify for the global stage in Trentino this September.
Among the international Youth B athletes racing this weekend are Konstantin Stoev (DEU), Ema Kolenikova (SVK), and Boróka Zilahy (HUN). “For me, challenging myself and trying to become a better athlete makes XTERRA special,” said Stoev. “Each location comes with a new unique challenge.” Kolenikova is excited for her debut in Prachatice: “It is a completely new adventure that I have chosen to improve my experience with cross triathlon. I am looking forward to joining my peers in Prachatice for an epic race!” Zilahy added, “I have never raced in Czech yet. It’s really exciting to take part in XTERRA.” These athletes represent the future of the sport and bring fresh energy to a course steeped in history.
From the Elites battling for World Cup points to the age groupers chasing personal goals, and from the rising youth athletes to the volunteers lining the course, everyone plays a role in what makes this weekend matter. The trails are ready and the Great Square in Prachatice is waiting for all the live action, including Sunday’s Short Track worldwide broadcast, and all the stories that will be captured on Instagram at @xterraeurope.
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