XTERRA Returns with a Bang in Costa Rica
XTERRA Costa Rica made a triumphant return to the off-road triathlon circuit this year, marking its 18th stop on the 2024 XTERRA Americas Tour. Held over the weekend of August 24-25, the event introduced a fresh team, a challenging new course, and a stunning new venue at Las Catalinas. This year’s race wasn’t just about pushing the limits of endurance—it was a celebration of community, culture, and the adventurous spirit that defines XTERRA.
A New Chapter for XTERRA Costa Rica
This year’s XTERRA Costa Rica wasn’t just another race; it was a full-fledged outdoor sports festival. What started as a single race has evolved into a major event featuring seven different competitions, drawing athletes from across the globe. From the Full Distance Triathlon to youth races, there was something for everyone. The festival atmosphere, complete with an expo village, live music, and a pasta dinner, made this more than just a competition—it was a gathering of like-minded adventurers celebrating the off-road lifestyle.
The Course: Designed for the Toughest Competitors
Under the expert guidance of two-time Olympian Leonardo Chacon Corrales, XTERRA Costa Rica unveiled a reimagined course developed by Performance Solutions. This wasn’t your average triathlon course; it was a test of grit, skill, and sheer determination.
Swim (1.5K): The race kicked off with a 1.5K swim in the warm, challenging waters of Playa Danta. High tide and rolling waves made this segment a true test, with athletes battling both the ocean and their nerves as they pushed through the swim loop.
Bike (21K): Next, competitors took on a 21K mountain bike ride through the rugged forest reserves surrounding Las Catalinas. Technical trails and steep elevation changes tested their endurance, but the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the cliffside paths offered some reward for their efforts.
Run (9K): The final leg of the race was a 9K trail run that led athletes along coastal paths, through stretches of pristine white-sand beaches, and into dense forests, all before finishing in the picturesque cobblestoned heart of Las Catalinas.
Full Distance Race Recap: Elite Athletes Shine
Men’s Race:
The men’s race was nothing short of spectacular, with elite triathletes battling it out from start to finish. Josiah Middaugh from the USA emerged victorious, though not without overcoming significant challenges. “I had a really good swim for me,” Middaugh noted, reflecting on the tough conditions in Playa Danta. He eventually found his rhythm on the bike and managed to catch up with his closest competitors, Dominik Wychera from Austria and local hero Leonardo Chacon Corrales. The 9K run saw a thrilling finish, with Middaugh narrowly edging out Wychera by just 19 seconds to claim victory with a time of 2:09:28.
Wychera, who faced early struggles in the swim, rallied on the bike and run, finishing second with a time of 2:09:47. Despite coming up short, Wychera was full of praise for the event, “The venue is amazing, this place is awesome. The scenery was my favorite part, looking into the ocean. It was unbelievable, and everyone on the course is cheering for you, so it’s just amazing.” Alvaro Campos, the top Costa Rican finisher, rounded out the podium in third place, clocking in at 2:16:35.
Women’s Race:
In the women’s race, Costa Rican athletes Raquel Solis and Paloma Soto went head-to-head in an exciting duel. Solis took the win with an overall time of 2:52:33, excelling in the swim and maintaining her lead through the bike and run segments. “The views are incredible. We crossed some rivers, which was fun and exciting,” Solis said of the course, highlighting the unique challenges it presented.
Paloma Soto, finishing second with a time of 3:22:16, faced her own set of challenges, particularly on the mountain bike portion. However, she remained positive about her experience, saying, “I need to continue to practice to get better at XTERRA races. I recommend that everyone tries it at least once, and I’ll be back for sure. The vibe here is good, and I really like the people and the atmosphere.”
A New Era for XTERRA in Costa Rica
This year’s event marked a new chapter for XTERRA in Costa Rica, with the move to Las Catalinas proving to be a resounding success. The car-free town on the Guanacaste coast provided an ideal backdrop for the competition, offering a mix of natural beauty and challenging terrain. Located just 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport, Las Catalinas was the perfect venue for an international event of this caliber.
In addition to the Full Distance Triathlon, the event featured a variety of activities for all ages and skill levels. The Sprint Triathlon served as a qualifier for the XTERRA Youth World Championship, while the 31.5K Trail Half Marathon offered slots for the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship. These events, along with shorter trail runs, an open-water swim, and children’s races, ensured that everyone could participate in the XTERRA experience.
A Celebration of Adventure
XTERRA Costa Rica 2024 wasn’t just about the races—it was about celebrating the adventurous spirit that XTERRA embodies. From elite athletes pushing their limits to families enjoying a weekend of outdoor activities, the event captured the essence of what makes XTERRA special. As Josiah Middaugh aptly put it, “Las Catalinas is a very unique, very special place. Love to bring my family next year.” With the successful return of this event, XTERRA Costa Rica has solidified its place as a must-visit destination on the off-road triathlon circuit.
