RUIDOSO, New Mexico — The inaugural XTERRA event in Lincoln National Forest, nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountain range, will take place from August 15-17, 2025, marking a significant addition to the XTERRA Americas Tour. Off-road triathletes, trail runners, and their families are invited to Grindstone Lake Park in Ruidoso, a village celebrated for its diverse outdoor recreation and welcoming community spirit.
The highlight of the weekend is the Full Distance Triathlon on August 16, offering 58 qualifying slots for the 2025 XTERRA World Championship in Trentino, Italy, and a $15,000 Elite Prize Purse. The event lineup also includes a 10K Trail Run, Kids Race, and Sprint Distance Triathlon, which serves as a key Youth Qualifier for the 2025 XTERRA Youth World Championship, giving young athletes a shot at competing on the world stage.
With trails that wind through pine forests and the crystal-clear waters of Grindstone Lake, Ruidoso, often called “Living in Nature’s Playground,” is more than just a race destination. It’s a family-friendly hub where the XTERRA community comes together with the warm hospitality of Lincoln County for a weekend of adventure and fun.
Event Highlights
- Full Distance Triathlon (August 16, 2025): Athletes will face a 1.5K swim, 30K mountain bike ride, and 10K trail run. This classic XTERRA race offers age-group competitors the chance to qualify for the XTERRA World Championship, while elite athletes battle for a share of the prize purse. The course offers the challenge of rugged terrain combined with breathtaking vistas.
- Sprint Distance Triathlon: Ideal for beginners or those seeking a less technical race, the Sprint Triathlon includes a 750-meter swim, 15K mountain bike ride, and 5K trail run. This event also serves as a qualifier for young athletes aiming to compete in the 2025 XTERRA Youth World Championship.
- 10K Trail Run (August 17, 2025): A perfect race for trail runners looking for a shorter distance, this race offers participants a chance to explore the scenic beauty of Ruidoso while sharing the experience with friends and family.
- XTERRA Ruidoso Kids Sprint: Future XTERRA stars can get a taste of trail sports in this free 1K kids’ race, providing a fun and safe environment for young participants to enjoy the outdoors and get their first experience in off-road racing.
Ruidoso Leaders Welcome XTERRA
Ruidoso’s leadership is enthusiastic about hosting XTERRA. Lynn Crawford, Mayor of the Village of Ruidoso, expressed how this event aligns with the town’s vision for growth as an outdoor destination:
“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.”
Eddie Ryan, Manager of Events & Strategic Partnerships, shared his excitement about the event’s potential:
“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.”
Steve Andrus, XTERRA Americas Tour Manager, highlighted the community’s role in making this event happen:
“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.”
Experience and Explore
In addition to the races, visitors can explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, from the legendary stories of Billy the Kid to the ancient traditions of Native American tribes. Beyond the competition, there are plenty of activities for families and adventure-seekers, including hiking trails in Lincoln National Forest, visits to historic sites like Fort Stanton, and modern attractions like the Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake.
XTERRA Ruidoso promises not only a chance to compete for spots in the 2025 XTERRA World Championship but also an opportunity to explore one of New Mexico’s most scenic and inviting regions.
For more information and to register, visit the official event page.
