Prachatice in the Czech Republic has been officially named as the destination host for the 2024 XTERRA European Championship on August 9th.
XTERRA Czech is one of XTERRA’s oldest races, dating back over two decades. In 2024, the medieval town will see leading European off-road triathletes and age groupers compete for titles.
Central to the festivities is Prachatice’s town square, which will transform into the heart of the championship, complete with live music, food trucks, and entertainment. Enhancing the spectator experience, Red Bull pilot Martin Sonka will perform aerial displays, along with a live broadcast of the fast-paced Elite Short Track race, featuring an increased number of on-course cameras to capture the action in detail for fans.
The Championship race begins with a 1.5K swim in the waters of Ktis Lake, followed by a challenging point-to-point 33K bike segment. This section weaves through historical and natural landscapes, including old panel roads from the 60s, the forested trails of the Golden Salt Path, and singletrack. The race then culminates with a scenic 10K run into Prachatice’s old Great Square.
Jan Bauer, Mayor of Prachatice, said “XTERRA Czech is not just a race; it’s a catalyst that brings our community together, energizes our businesses, and enriches our cultural fabric.
“Each year, we see an incredible impact, and hosting the European Championship is a great honour for us. We eagerly await to welcome athletes and visitors from around the world to experience the unique charm of Prachatice.”
Frantisek Bican, Operations Manager of XTERRA Czech, said “Organizing XTERRA Czech is a monumental task, made possible by the incredible support from landowners, local mayors, and the entire community.
“We are committed to preserving our natural landscapes and ensuring that the race leaves a positive footprint. Our focus is on sustainability, reducing waste, and ensuring that the beauty of our race course remains unspoiled for future generations.”
Race Director Michal Piloušek added “Crafting the XTERRA course in Prachatice is about striking the perfect balance. We aim to challenge athletes with technical sections while showcasing the region’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.
“Our goal is to create a race that is not only demanding but also inspiring, leaving athletes with a sense of accomplishment and a deep connection to the spirit of Prachatice.”
The 2024 European Championship will also include other races throughout the two-day event, such as the Youth Sprint Triathlon and Youth Super Sprint races.
