Conquer Canada's Ultimate Xtreme Triathlon Challenge: The Grueling Lac

In the heart of Quebec, amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Lac-Megantic, lies a challenge that beckons the brave and the bold from across the globe. The Canada Man/Woman Xtreme Triathlon, renowned as Canada's toughest triathlon, isn't just a race; it's a testament to human spirit and endurance.

The story of this formidable event begins with a heart-wrenching tragedy. In the early hours of July 6, 2013, Lac-Megantic was rocked by a devastating rail disaster that claimed 47 lives and left the town in ruins. Amidst the ashes of despair, the community sought a beacon of hope and revival. Enter Jean-Thomas Boily and Daniel Poirier, two endurance enthusiasts whose love for nature and their community sparked the inception of the Canada Man/Woman Xtreme in 2017. Their vision was clear: to bring people together, challenge their limits, and help rebuild a community scarred by catastrophe.

The triathlon unfolds with a swim in the chilly waters of Lac Megantic. Originally set at 3.8 km, this year's swim has been adjusted to 2 km due to the nippy air conditions—a slight reprieve in an otherwise grueling race. Following the swim, athletes face a daunting 180 km bike ride along the Route des Sommets, encompassing a staggering 2,500 meters of climbing. The final leg, a 42 km run, isn't for the faint-hearted either, with 1,200 meters of elevation gain, culminating at the Mont Megantic Observatory. This race is so rigorous that participants are required to have a companion during the final stages of the run, reminiscent of the famed Norseman XTri event.

The event also offers a Solo .5 race, a condensed version of the Xtreme, featuring a 1 km swim, a 90 km bike ride, and a 20 km run. This option provides a taste of the extreme challenge in a more accessible format.

Originally a summer event, the race moved to October in 2021 due to the COVID pandemic. This shift not only added to the challenge with cooler conditions but also allowed participants to immerse themselves in the spectacular fall scenery that Lac-Megantic has to offer.

This year, the triathlon will host around 200 athletes from 10 different countries, with the men's race spotlighting Henrik Knutsen from Norway, a seasoned athlete known for his prowess in extreme triathlons. The community's support is palpable, with 150 volunteers contributing to the success of the event.

Julie Morin, Mayor of Lac-Megantic, encapsulates the sentiment of her town, "The Canada Man/Woman Xtri World Tour has become a cornerstone event for our city. It embodies the resilience, sportsmanship, and natural beauty of our region. We are proud to welcome athletes from around the world to face this monumental challenge, alongside our local citizens who are pushing their own limits."

As the race approaches, Triathlon Magazine's editor Kevin Mackinnon is on-site, ready to cover the event that not only challenges the physical and mental fortitude of its participants but also celebrates the indomitable spirit of Lac-Megantic.

This triathlon is more than a race; it's a symbol of endurance, community, and the relentless human spirit that thrives on challenge and transformation. Whether you're an elite athlete or a passionate spectator, the Canada Man/Woman Xtreme offers a profound glimpse into the depths of human capability and the power of community resilience.

What is the Canada Man/Woman Xtreme Triathlon?

The Canada Man/Woman Xtreme Triathlon is considered Canada's toughest triathlon, featuring a challenging course that includes a swim in Lac Megantic, a bike route along the Route des Somme's, and a run that culminates at the Mont Megantic Observatory.

Why was the Canada Man/Woman Xtreme Triathlon created?

The triathlon was created as a way to help the community of Lac-Megantic recover from a devastating railway crash in 2013. It aims to foster community resilience and attract attention to the area.

When is the Canada Man/Woman Xtreme Triathlon held?

Originally held in July, the race has been moved to October since 2021 to take advantage of the autumn scenery and to increase the difficulty of the event.

What was the impact of the 2013 railway crash on Lac-Megantic?

The 2013 railway crash in Lac-Megantic resulted in the deaths of 47 people and destroyed about half of the downtown area, leading to widespread contamination and the demolition of many remaining buildings.