The Xterra season commenced last night, European Time, with the inaugural World Cup event, a spectacle predominantly ruled by the French contingent. Felix Forissier, the favored contender, clinched victory in the Xterra Asia-Pacific Championship men’s category, while his compatriot Solenne Billouin secured the women’s title.
The competition unfolded across the grueling Xterra Full Distance course, encompassing a 1,500-meter swim, 29 kilometers of mountain biking, and a 12-kilometer trail run over demanding terrain. Forissier set the pace in the men’s division, crossing the finish line with a commanding time of 2:38:31.
The race remained tense as Danish athlete Jens Emit Sloth Nielsen trailed closely, securing second place with a time of 2:39:52. Notably, Arthur Forissier, sibling to the victor, claimed the third spot, completing the race in 2:41:44.
In the women’s field, Solenne Billouin showcased dominance, securing victory with a substantial lead. She completed the course in 3:10:02, maintaining over a three-minute advantage over her compatriot Alizee Paties, who secured second place with a time of 3:13:13. Italy’s Marta Menditto rounded off the podium, clinching third place with a time of 3:16:51 in this season’s inaugural Xterra World Cup event.
