XTERRA Ruidoso Brings the Off-Road Challenge to New Mexico’s Sierra Blanca

September 16, 2024

RUIDOSO, NEW MEXICO, USA /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The first ever XTERRA event in Lincoln National Forest set in the Sierra Blanca mountain range will take place from August 15-17 as a major addition to the 2025 XTERRA Americas Tour. Off-road triathletes, trail runners and their families are invited to Grindstone Lake Park in the village of Ruidoso known for its diverse outdoor recreation and welcoming community.

The Full Distance Triathlon on August 16 will be offering 58 qualifying slots for the 2025 XTERRA World Championship in Trentino, Italy, and a $15,000 Elite Prize Purse. The weekend will also include a 10K Trail Run, Kids Race, and Sprint Distance Triathlon also serving as a key Youth Qualifier as part of the XTERRA Youth Tour, providing young athletes the chance to secure spots for the 2025 XTERRA Youth World Championship.

With trails winding through pine forests and the clear waters of Grindstone Lake, Ruidoso, often described as “Living in Nature’s Playground,” is more than just a race location—it’s a family-friendly destination where the XTERRA Community meets the hospitality of Lincoln County for a weekend of adventure.

Event Highlights

On August 16, 2025, at Grindstone Lake Park, the Full Distance Triathlon, features a 1.5K swim, 30K mountain bike ride, and 10K trail run. This classic XTERRA race is where athletes in their respective age groups battle for World Championship qualification in an outdoor arena with Elites aiming to also conquer the challenge while discovering new landscapes and stunning vistas.

For those seeking a shorter challenge, the Sprint Distance Triathlon includes a 750-meter swim, 15K mountain bike ride, and 5K trail run. Designed for first-timers or those looking for a fast, less technical course, the Sprint Triathlon will also give young athletes the opportunity to compete for a chance to line up at the 2025 XTERRA Youth World Championship.

On August 17, 2025, trail running enthusiasts can participate in the 10K Trail Run, an ideal race for those who enjoy shorter distances. As an entry point into the XTERRA trail running world, runners have the chance to share this experience with family and friends while exploring the scenic beauty of Ruidoso.

The weekend will conclude with the XTERRA Ruidoso Kids Sprint, a 1K run designed to give future XTERRA stars a taste of trail sports. This free race provides a fun, safe, and supportive environment for kids to enjoy the outdoors and take their first steps into off-road racing.

Ruidoso Leaders Welcome XTERRA

“Bringing XTERRA to Ruidoso is a game-changer for our community. This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to position Ruidoso as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and adventure sports. Lincoln National Forest and the stunning vistas of Sierra Blanca provide an ideal setting for XTERRA’s challenging off-road triathlon. We anticipate this event will not only attract elite athletes but will also showcase our town’s unique charm to a global audience. The economic impact will be substantial, benefiting our local businesses and potentially spurring further investment in our outdoor recreation infrastructure. We’re committed to making this a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship that will put Ruidoso on the map for extreme sports enthusiasts worldwide.” — Lynn Crawford, Mayor of the Village of Ruidoso

“We are thrilled to welcome XTERRA to Ruidoso. Our beautiful mountain trails and vibrant community make the perfect backdrop for this world-class event. We’re excited to showcase our natural beauty and hospitality to athletes and spectators from around the globe. We look forward to hosting an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.” — Eddie Ryan, Manager of Events & Strategic Partnerships

“Ruidoso has shown remarkable support in making this event a reality. The combination of excellent trails, the unique experience of swimming in Grindstone Lake, and the welcoming energy from the local community will make this a memorable event for all participants. Athletes can expect to feel the enthusiasm of the region while racing through one of the most exciting XTERRA courses in the Americas.” — Steve Andrus, XTERRA Americas Tour Manager

Experience and Explore

From the legendary tales of Billy the Kid to the ancient traditions of Native American tribes, this is an area steeped in diverse heritage that can be explored through local landmarks and activities. Beyond the races, visitors can enjoy hiking trails in the Lincoln National Forest, historical sites like Fort Stanton, and modern attractions, including the Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake.

Competing for a spot at the 2025 XTERRA World Championship and absorbing the outdoor experience in one of New Mexico’s most scenic and welcoming regions is what XTERRA Ruidoso is set to deliver.

For more information and to register, visit the official event page here.

About XTERRA

XTERRA is a global lifestyle brand that champions the outdoor enthusiast in their pursuit of relentless adventure. From pioneering the sport of cross-triathlon in 1996, XTERRA has grown to become a leading brand in off-road adventure through the XTERRA World Tour, XTERRA Trail Run World Series and the XTERRA World Cup, connecting an eco-aware community of worldwide explorers that seek to protect the places where they play. For more information, visit xterraplanet.com.

High-resolution images for publication and social media use here. (Photo credit: Discover Ruidoso)