Endurance sports athletes worldwide are gearing up for the highly anticipated return of the Canada Man/Woman XTRI World Tour to Lac-Mégantic on Oct. 6. Organized by the Endurance Aventure team, this event, part of the esteemed XTRI World Tour World Series, is more than just a competition; it’s a personal challenge that emphasizes collaboration, solidarity, and mutual support among athletes.

In a departure from traditional triathlons, the Canada Man/Woman XTRI World Tour focuses on individual challenges rather than intense rivalry. While the race undoubtedly features fierce competition among leaders, the true essence of the adventure lies in the courageous and persevering moments that unfold throughout the event.

This year, participants can expect an unparalleled experience with two distinctive components: the Canada Man/Woman XTRI World Tour (3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42 km run) and the XTRI SOLO POINT FIVE CANADA (2 km swim, 90 km bike ride, 20 km run). More than 100 athletes from six countries, 13 states, and four provinces have already registered, representing Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and the United States.

The event proudly highlights local talent, featuring Philippe Gagné, a 20-year-old triathlete from the Mégantic region, as its ambassador. Gagné, a passionate representative of the discipline, serves as both a competitor to watch and a role model for aspiring triathletes in the region.

“Before becoming an athlete, I was very attracted to video games. It was my brother who influenced me. If I can motivate other 20-year-olds to train, it will be a success,” said Gagné. “I encourage everyone to do it! It’s a source of pride to welcome international triathletes to my hometown. The lake is ideal for swimming and the climb of Mont-Mégantic is very impressive for someone who is discovering the region.”

Having already secured a victory in the Magog marathon in October 2023 and the Canada Man/Woman Sprint event, Gagné now sets his sights on completing the full distance of the Canada Man/Woman XTRI World Tour.

The seventh edition of the triathlon will once again feature a challenging course in the picturesque town of Lac-Mégantic, offering invaluable support that has contributed to the event’s global reputation. Jean-Thomas Boily, Co-founder and Director of Operations at Endurance Aventure, expresses gratitude for the support from the city of Lac-Mégantic and highlights the lasting memories created by finishing at the top of Mont-Mégantic.

“It’s the dream destination to hold a competition of this scale,” said Jean-Thomas Boily, co-founder and director of operations, at Endurance Aventure. “Finishing at the top of Mont-Mégantic offers lasting memories. We are blessed to benefit from so much support from representatives of the town of Lac-Mégantic.”

The Endurance Aventure production team is currently working on a comprehensive broadcast of the Canada Man/Woman XTRI World Tour 2023, set to air on RDS and internationally in more than 150 countries.