The 2025 UCI Cross-country Marathon (XCM) World Championships unfolded today across 125 punishing kilometres of the Swiss Alps. From Verbier to Grimentz. And much like the Leadville 100 earlier this year, Americans Keegan Swenson and Kate Courtney proved untouchable. Just weeks after winning in Leadville, the pair matched their performances on the global stage, riding to victory over high alpine passes and centuries-old villages.<\/p>\n
Swenson withstands the Alps<\/p>\n
Keegan Swenson, best known for his gravel dominance and growing multi-discipline reputation, took control of the men\u2019s race after nearly four hours in the saddle. He clawed into the lead by the Evol\u00e8ne checkpoint and never looked back. The 31-year-old American crossed the finish in 6:01:44, holding off Italy\u2019s Samuele Porro by just 25 seconds.<\/p>\n
It was a smart and calculated ride from Swenson, on a course that crested 2,787 metres at the Pas de Lona.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a special one,\u201d he said post-race, soaked in sweat but grinning. \u201cRacing in the Alps is always brutal. But winning here, that\u2019s unforgettable.\u201d<\/p>\n
Courtney claims rainbow in a second discipline<\/p>\n
Kate Courtney\u2019s ride was a masterclass in pacing and composure. She went to the front early with Swiss rider Anna Weinbeer and never relinquished control. After distancing the field before the halfway mark, Courtney cruised through the checkpoints with a growing lead. By the final Moiry pass, she was nearly four minutes clear of the field.<\/p>\n
Courtney crossed the line in 7:10:11 to take her second career world title. This time in the marathon discipline, seven years after claiming her XCO rainbow jersey in Lenzerheide.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis one feels just as sweet,\u201d she said. \u201cTo win in Switzerland again and in a completely different format, is wild.\u201d<\/p>\n
Leadville d\u00e9j\u00e0 vu<\/p>\n