Northern Ontario’s rugged terrain, punctuated by pristine lakes and dense forests, sets the stage for XTERRA Conquer the Crater—a thrilling off-road triathlon and trail running weekend on July 20-21 that promises both excitement and purpose. As athletes from near and far prepare to converge on Greater Sudbury, Ontario, they are not just gearing up for a race; they are embarking on a journey to support a noble cause.

In the expansive XTERRA World Tour, Canada offers a select array of stops, with only seven across the country and just two in Ontario. For contenders aspiring to secure a place in this year’s XTERRA World Championship in Trentino, Italy, Sept. 26-29, opportunities for qualification are scarce. However, insider knowledge reveals that smaller races such as XTERRA: Conquer the Crater present ideal chances to clinch coveted entries. 

Challenging Terrain, Breathtaking Views:

The XTERRA Conquer the Crater course is a blend of beauty and brutality. Athletes tackle a variety of landscapes, from the crystal-clear waters of Ramsey Lake to the winding singletrack trails and challenging climbs of Northern Ontario. With each stroke, pedal, and stride, participants are not only testing their physical limits but also immersing themselves in the untamed beauty of the region.

“The XTERRA: Conquer the Crater festival is a home-grown off-road racing weekend offering the perfect challenge for new or seasoned competitors, dedicated athletes or weekend-warriors addicted to fun, speed and intensity,” said John MacDonald, one of the co-founders of the race along with Tracy Hayes.  “Whether you love mountain biking, trail running, swimming, or all three we have a race and distance to push your personal limits in a warm, welcoming, and friendly atmosphere.”

Races

Participants can choose from a variety of races, including triathlons, duathlons, and trail runs, each offering a unique test of endurance and skill amidst Northern Ontario’s stunning wilderness.

• Full Distance Triathlon: A challenging course comprising a 1.5km swim, 24km bike, and 9km run.
• Sprint Triathlon: Ideal for those seeking a shorter challenge, featuring a 750m swim, 13km bike, and 4.5km run.
• Full Duathlon: For runners and cyclists, combining a 5km run, 24km bike, and 9km run.
• Sprint Duathlon: A shorter alternative with a 2.5km run, 13km bike, and 4.5km run.
• Trail Runs: Various distances available, including 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km.

In addition to the races, participants can enjoy an array of activities and events throughout the weekend, such as the XTERRA Expo, Beer Garden, Music Festival, and MAC Kids Day.

A Landscape Unlike Any Other

What truly distinguishes XTERRA Conquer the Crater is its setting—a landscape that captivates the soul and fuels the spirit of adventure. Northern Ontario’s natural wonders, including ancient rock formations and shimmering lakes, create a backdrop that beckons athletes and spectators alike. Beyond the racecourse, Greater Sudbury offers endless opportunities for exploration, from tranquil hikes to serene paddling excursions.

It’s also got an incredible event atmosphere.

“It is all kinds of loud,” MacDonald adds. “From the cheers of spectators and fellow athletes, to music pumping through the trees throughout the course, to the live music festival (on Saturday) and the laughter from kids during the children’s festival (on Sunday), it’s loud. XTERRA: Conquer the Crater is equal parts celebrating the athletes and their personal performances, celebrating all children, and celebrating what our corner of the world has to offer – amazing clear waters, unique Cambrian Shield rock and old growth forest of Kivi Park, local food, local beer, local music, and local artists. It really is a festival as much as it is a race.”

MacDonald adds that the mountain bike course will be different this year incorporating some new single-track that has been developed in addition to the festival aspect of the race to both Saturday and Sunday. 

Racing with Purpose

What sets XTERRA: Conquer the Crater apart is not just its status as a qualifying event but also its unique distinction as the sole stop on the XTERRA World Tour operating as a 100% non-profit venture. Proceeds from the race are dedicated entirely to the Northern Cancer Foundation’s Miles Against Cancer (MAC) Fund, benefiting local pediatric cancer patients and their families. This commitment to philanthropy sets XTERRA: Conquer the Crater apart, making it a beacon of altruism in the competitive world of endurance sports.

Uniting Athletes, Building Community

Since its inception in 2019, XTERRA Conquer the Crater has raised more than $200,000 for the MAC fund, fostering a sense of camaraderie and compassion among participants. For every new pediatric cancer diagnosis in Northern Ontario, families receive immediate financial support, thanks to the generosity of race participants and sponsors. Beyond the dollars raised, the event cultivates a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for adventure and a commitment to giving back.

Destination Race

For athletes and spectators alike, XTERRA Conquer the Crater isn’t just a race—it’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the unparalleled beauty of Northern Ontario. From the moment participants arrive, they’re greeted by the warm hospitality of the local community and the awe-inspiring grandeur of the landscape.

Whether it’s exploring the region’s hiking trails, paddling along tranquil waterways, or simply admiring the sunset from the shores of Ramsey Lake, Greater Sudbury offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

“Greater Sudbury has over 300 lakes within its city limits, and some of the most unique and challenging trails for mountain biking and trail running anywhere in Ontario,” MacDonald says. “Throw in a two-day festival where you can compete as an athlete, enjoy live local music, food and beer, all while camping at the event site – that sounds like a well-planned one-stop shop vacation.”

An Invitation to Adventure

As XTERRA Conquer the Crater returns in 2024, it extends an open invitation to all who seek adventure with a purpose.

“The atmosphere. The athletes, the volunteers, the spectators and family support teams, everyone is there to support each other, while supporting a great cause – and the weight and joy of MAC’s presence makes this event unlike any other,” MacDonald says. “There is an undeniable yet tangible feeling throughout the entire weekend that we are all part of something special and something bigger than ourselves. You’ll have to come and experience it first hand.”

Whether racing to the finish line or cheering from the sidelines, participants and spectators alike are invited to embrace the magic of Northern Ontario—to revel in its beauty, to celebrate its resilience, and to unite in support of a cause greater than themselves. In the heart of the wilderness, amidst the rugged terrain and shimmering lakes, an unforgettable journey awaits.