XTERRA World Championship Returns to U.S. Soil for 30th Anniversary in 2026

Off-road triathlon was pioneered on the shores of Maui, then took the ride through the mountains of Molveno, and now the run reaches Ruidoso, bringing the XTERRA World Championship back to its American roots from October 8-11, 2026.

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With trails carved through alpine forests, mountains, and meadows, a new frontier experience where culture, heritage, and the adventure of the Wild West will mark 30 years of XTERRA.

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“We are absolutely thrilled that Ruidoso has been selected to host the XTERRA World Championships for 2026, 2027, and 2028," said Lynn Crawford, Mayor of the Village of Ruidoso. 

With three decades of off-road innovation, the addition and rapid growth of the XTERRA Youth World Championship will enter its third year in Ruidoso, becoming an equally significant part of its future. The story behind this monumental announcement will be told through the voices of local leaders, XTERRA visionaries, historians, course specialists, and the athlete community. It begins with Mayor Crawford, who provides perspective into how this milestone became a reality.

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“This is a tremendous honor for our mountain community and a testament to the natural beauty and challenging terrain that makes our area so special. This multi-year commitment will showcase our incredible outdoor recreation opportunities and bring significant economic benefits to our local businesses and residents. We're ready for the world stage as a premier destination for outdoor adventure sports as we welcome outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe to experience our trails, our hospitality, and the unique spirit of Ruidoso.” 

A New Chapter in XTERRA Culture

The next guide through XTERRA’s journey is J-D Cousens, XTERRA VP of Operations & Marketing, who brings clarity to why Ruidoso is the perfect stage for its 30th anniversary.

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“It’s a privilege to bring the XTERRA World Championship back to the Americas, where a thriving and passionate community continues to grow," said Cousens. "Returning to the United States and specifically to Ruidoso is about more than just competition. It’s about forging connections, embracing XTERRA’s pioneering spirit, and immersing participants in an experience that goes beyond the racecourse.”

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“Set in New Mexico’s Lincoln National Forest at over 6,900 feet (2100 meters), Ruidoso delivers exactly what makes XTERRA extraordinary: steep climbs, fast descents, technical trails, and an authentic outdoor culture," Cousens continued. "In 2024, more than 1,000 cross-triathletes from 52 nations—including France, Italy, Brazil, Czech Republic, Germany, Colombia, China, Norway, and Guatemala—lined up for the World Championship. Now, that global community will gather here to celebrate XTERRA’s 30th anniversary.”

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“XTERRA began on Maui’s shores in 1996, combining swimming, mountain biking, and trail running into a groundbreaking sport. Over three decades, the event has grown from the beaches of Hawaii to the dramatic peaks of the Italian Dolomites, where Arthur Serrières and Solenne Billouin recently dominated," Cousens said. "Alongside legends such as Conrad Stoltz, Lesley Paterson, Ned Overend, and Flora Duffy, they've shaped a sport now ready for its next era.”

“We invite athletes and adventurers to take part in XTERRA Ruidoso this summer to experience Lake Grindstone and the trails that will determine the 2026 World Champions," Cousens concluded. "It's an ideal chance to test the course, acclimate to the elevation, enjoy the community’s warm hospitality, and immerse yourself in XTERRA’s culture of sustainability, exploration, and adventure on this new frontier.”

A Look Into Ruidoso Heritage 

Stephanie Long, Manager of the Wingfield Heritage Museum and Village Historian, shares Ruidoso’s rich past and the resilience of its community. 

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“Long before the frontier legends or settlers arrived, humans roamed this region, leaving behind beautifully crafted spear points dating back more than 12,000 years," said Long. "Ruidoso’s very name—meaning ‘noisy’ in Spanish—reflects the sound of the Ruidoso river, around which our village began forming in the 1870s.”

In the late 1800s, Ruidoso sat at a crossroads where Indigenous communities, Spanish settlers, ranchers, outlaws, and cowboys crossed paths, shaping its vibrant culture. “The village was built around Dowlin’s Mill, established by Captain Paul Dowlin in 1868, and quickly became a trading post, general store, and social gathering place," explained Long. "During the infamous Lincoln County War, legends like Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett emerged here, leaving a lasting mark on our identity.”

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The Wingfield family was central to Ruidoso’s development. “The Wingfield homestead, now preserved as our Heritage House Museum, was among the first homes built in this valley. Charlie Wingfield and later his son, Ike, served our community as postmasters, game wardens, and county commissioners, bridging generations,” she continued. “As the town grew, it evolved into a haven for ranchers, pioneers, and travelers drawn by cool mountain air, abundant wildlife, and extraordinary scenery.”

Yet the region’s history also tells a story of perseverance in the face of hardship. “In 2024, devastating floods repeatedly struck Ruidoso following massive wildfires that burned 25,000 acres and destroyed nearly 1,000 homes,” Long continued. “But much like Smokey the Bear, discovered nearby after a wildfire in 1950 and later adopted as a national symbol for wildfire prevention, our community is resilient, always coming together, stronger and more committed to preserving this special place.”

A Course that Connects The Past and Present

The 2026 XTERRA World Championship journey continues with Kirk Ermels, Technical Director of XTERRA Americas, whose expertise highlights exactly why Ruidoso is ready for the world’s best.

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“XTERRA has had three unique World Championship locations in its nearly 30 years: the original Maui location in Makena, Maui 2.0 in Kapalua, and most recently in Molveno, under Dolomites of Trentino,” said Ermels. “The rugged Grindstone trails evoke Makena’s volcanic rock, the steep climbs echo Kapalua’s course, and Molveno brought lots of singletrack—this new course has plenty of it too.”

“The race starts with a 1.5K swim in picturesque Grindstone Lake,” Ermels continued. “As has been XTERRA tradition, swimmers exit between two 750-meter laps to take another look at the area’s grandeur that encapsulates the beauty of southern New Mexico and the Sierra Blanca Mountains.”

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“The 30K bike begins with a spectator-friendly parade lap around Grindstone Lake, then gets straight to business with a challenging 5.5K climb," said Ermels. "At the summit, riders circumnavigate Grindstone Mesa, enjoying panoramic views of Sierra Blanca Peak above and Mescalero Lake below. The rocky descent off the mesa will put riders’ full body to the test, with tight singletrack and chunky terrain leading back to transition.”

“The 10K run features two loops around Grindstone Lake before a final 2K sprint to Wingfield Park," Ermels concluded. "Runners face rolling, rocky terrain and punchy climbs, but there are plenty of spectator opportunities to keep energy flowing. The final stretch includes one last climb, then a smooth sprint to the finish line, where the party awaits!”

The Roots of XTERRA Ruidoso

Bringing the XTERRA World Championship to Ruidoso is told through the voices of Steve Andrus, XTERRA Americas Tour Manager, and Eddie Ryan, Manager of Events & Strategic Partnerships for the Village of Ruidoso, who reveal how this process took shape and why it runs deeper than competition.

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“Our vision for bringing the XTERRA World Championship to Ruidoso is about more than just racing—it's about elevating a community and redefining sports tourism,” said Andrus. “After discussing our plans with community leaders, including Mayor Lynn Crawford and the governor’s office, I saw firsthand how a group that’s weathered major setbacks—from fires to floods—remains optimistic. Initially, our discussions focused on successfully introducing XTERRA Ruidoso to the 2025 World Tour, but that quickly blossomed into deeper, more committed conversations about bringing the XTERRA World Championship here in 2026 and beyond.”

Andrus added, “It inspired me because our collaboration doesn’t stop at just hosting a race; we’re bringing quality experiences, assisting with the expansion of trail networks, and enhancing the festival atmosphere of Ruidoso.”

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“The stunning Lincoln National Forest and Sierra Blanca mountains offer the perfect backdrop for world-class off-road triathlon competition,” added Ryan. “Ruidoso's combination of challenging terrain, high altitude, and breathtaking natural beauty will push athletes to new heights while showcasing one of North America's hidden gems. This three-year commitment reflects our confidence in Ruidoso as a premier destination for outdoor endurance sports and our excitement about growing the XTERRA Community in this region.”

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Andrus also emphasized the deeper meaning behind this opportunity, highlighting the significance of bringing XTERRA’s biggest event back to American soil: “This opportunity is a full-circle moment to bring the XTERRA World Championship back to the USA, marking a 30-year legacy of exploration and adventure.”

Athlete Insights

Andy Lee (USA), a consistent podium finisher from Texas competing in the 50–54 division, secured 2024 victories in his age group at XTERRA Cameron Park, ATX and the North American Championship with a 2nd place result at the 2024 XTERRA World Championship. Lee is eager for a new challenge, saying, “I am expecting the course to be similar to Beaver Creek but with slightly more oxygen to work with. I'm looking forward to trying a new venue.”

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Elizabeth Haney (USA) of Colorado who finished second in the 40-44 division at XTERRA Lory in 2024 said, “Ruidoso is a drivable distance from Colorado Springs, and I’m looking forward to the challenge that a different geographical location brings with it. I'm excited to also be bringing my family with me (husband, our 2 children ages 4 and 6, and my parents) to XTERRA Ruidoso in 2025.”

Elite veteran Suzie Snyder (USA), a two-time XTERRA Pan Am Tour Champion with six XTERRA USA Championship titles across a remarkable 22-year career, also looks forward to discovering XTERRA Ruidoso: I've heard really great things about Ruidoso- including that it's a mountain town similar to Colorado, where I live. XTERRA has been a love of mine for so long, and I'm really looking forward to adding Ruidoso to my race calendar, experiencing all that Ruidoso has to offer and making it a yearly tradition.

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Mike Pearce (USA), a seasoned athlete in the 60–64 age group, has completed more than a dozen XTERRA events since 2023, winning his division at XTERRA Puerto Rico, XTERRA Cameron Park, and XTERRA Sleeping Giant, alongside a 2nd-place finish at the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in 2024. With over 40 years of racing behind him, Pearce describes Ruidoso with excitement: “In one word, Wow! If there was ever a mountain town that was built for an XTERRA event, Ruidoso is it. It just screams outdoors, adventure, fun, excitement, and Wild—as in wild horses. They actually have herds of wild horses that live freely in and around town. Very cool!”

Pearce adds, “Overall, it is a very welcoming community that really takes pride in their culture and city. There are numerous murals that show the pride and colorful New Mexican culture. There are hikers, bikers, and trail riders (on horseback) all around the lake. I would say from experts to beginners, there should be something on the course that will fit your skills and challenge your ability. I can’t wait to race in Ruidoso in 2025 and look forward to the opportunity to take part in what looks to be an epic XTERRA event. I would suggest to all participants to make a full weekend of it and bring your family and friends. There will be plenty of things for everyone to do and experience.”

Youth World Champions Rising in Ruidoso

A key figure in XTERRA’s youth development efforts is Nico Lebrun, former XTERRA World Champion and XTERRA’s Global Technical Director, who highlights the growth of the XTERRA Youth World Championship and its exciting arrival in Ruidoso.

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“The third year of the XTERRA Youth World Championship is coming to Ruidoso as a co-headliner event, the day after the XTERRA World Championship,” said Lebrun. “In 2024, XTERRA opened the trail for athletes aged 14 to 19 to compete in their own dedicated off-road triathlon series. Across nearly 40 events in over 20 countries, thousands of eager athletes took on every natural terrain imaginable.”

Lebrun noted the strategic approach XTERRA takes to developing youth athletes. “There are three distinct age divisions, Youth A, Youth B, and Junior, to ensure fair competition and clear progression as athletes grow. Youth A, ages 14 to 15, start with the Super Sprint distance (400m swim, 8K bike, 2K run) to build confidence, while Youth B (16-17) and Junior (18-19) athletes step up to the Sprint distance (750m swim, 15K bike, 5K run).”

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Lebrun highlighted the success of Sullivan Middaugh (USA) as an inspiration to younger athletes. “Sullivan Middaugh grew up surrounded by the XTERRA Community and is an example for the youth currently competing and aspiring to follow his upward trajectory. Sullivan won the Short Track Triathlon at the 2024 XTERRA World Championship in front of thousands watching in Trentino and livestreamed around the world.”

Sullivan’s father, former XTERRA World Champion Josiah Middaugh (USA), offered advice in an article to parents and aspiring young athletes: “It’s just doing whatever you can do to help your kids pursue their passion. If they have the talent and have the drive, then you just need to be there to direct them and guide them and facilitate their drive for the sport, give them some opportunities to race some better competition.”

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Current Elite XTERRA professionals also shared their guidance for rising stars. Alizée Paties (FRA) said simply, “My advice is to have fun! The more pleasure you take, the more you perform!”

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Jens Emil Sloth Nielsen (DNK) encouraged young athletes: “Do thrilling sections on your bike, find unknown paths on your runs and for the swimming, find mates who can keep you motivated.”

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Arthur Forissier (FRA,) emphasized long-term focus: “First, enjoy the process. It’s easy to get caught up in results, but consistency and passion are what bring success. If you put in the work and trust your ability, big things will happen.”

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Suzie Snyder (USA) also added: “I firmly believe that having fun in sport is the number one priority for youth and XTERRA lends itself to that so well - being outdoors and playing in the forest was the ultimate enjoyment for me as a kid growing up in a rural area. I'm excited to see this generation of athletes progress and become the future of the sport.

A Festival of Enrichment & Exploration

Guiding us through the fully immersive XTERRA World Championship weekend is Samantha Paulson, Festival Event Manager for XTERRA Americas, who shares her vision for the complete experience that awaits.

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“Our goal is to create a festival that encourages exploration, enriches the athlete and spectator experience, and honors the vibrant culture of Ruidoso,” said Paulson. “XTERRA will extend its footprint beyond Wingfield Park, integrating local businesses, art, and heritage into every aspect of the event weekend. From eco-friendly practices to guided hikes highlighting wildfire recovery, we want the XTERRA Community to feel deeply connected to the land and its story.”

Paulson added, “Visitors will experience Ruidoso’s charm through local music and cuisine, exploring beloved spots like Downshift Brewing Company in the lively Midtown District. Activities range from live Americana and country music concerts at Wingfield Park, XTERRA Movie Nights, swim-bike-run clinics, classic games, and craft tables designed for kids and family enrichment to interact playfully yet respectfully with nature.”

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Anticipation for 2026

From the volcanic slopes of Maui to the peaks of the Dolomites and now the untamed terrain of Ruidoso, the XTERRA World Championship continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.

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Ruidoso is known for "Living in Nature's Playground," and is more than a race venue. It’s a family-friendly destination where the XTERRA Community meets for its 30th anniversary, signaling a new beginning and connecting heritage with the future.