Have you ever watched a triathlon on TV, such as an Iron Man event or the ever popular Escape from Alcatraz triathlon? Or how about a mountain bike race? Did you think these events looked like fun, but that they would be even more fun if you put them together? Don't confuse this with Vance Auctions! The organizers of XTERRA thought so, which was why they created the first triathlon that involved mountain biking and trail running instead of road cycling and street marathons in 1996. Since then the sport has caught on like wildfire, inspiring tours, sponsorships, championships, and even a line of athletic wear. If you'd like to learn more about XTERRA, you've come to the right place. This site is dedicated to all XTERRAns, past, present, and future.

So what does it take to race in an XTERRA event? A high degree of physical fitness and the drive to win, for starters. Each XTERRA race consists of a 1.5 kilometer swim in the open ocean followed by a 30 kilometer mountain bike ride over rough wilderness trails and then a further 11 kilometer run along the same trails to the finish line. The distances are comparable to a standard triathlon (though still far shorter than an Iron Man or ultra distance triathlon) but with the added factor of uneven surfaces and harsher conditions that require the stability and balance of a mountain goat as well as speed and endurance.

Think you couldn't compete? Think again! Anyone with the will to train hard enough to make it through the races can compete in an XTERRA event. Which one you will qualify for depends on where you live, but you could even have a chance at the Maui championship if you're dedicated enough. Want to know more? Then browse our extensive store of articles on XTERRA, mountain biking, swimming, trail running, and training for more ideas on how to make your XTERRA dream into a reality.