Partnerships with Purpose: How XTERRA and Ruidoso Are Building Beyond the Finish Line

XTERRA is proud to build partnerships that elevate communities—celebrating local culture, revitalizing regional economies, and inviting the world to discover the beauty of nature, heritage, and human connection.

https://www.cloudcroftreader.com/p/xterra-world-championship-off-road

Through thoughtful collaboration and amplified global visibility, our events shine a spotlight not just on racing—but on the places and people that make each experience unforgettable.

A recent example is our partnership with the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico. In a public announcement hosted at Downshift Brewing Company—co-founded by local entrepreneur Shelby Rist Gutierrez—Mayor Lynn Crawford shared the community’s excitement about hosting the XTERRA World Championship from 2026 to 2028. This landmark collaboration brings XTERRA’s three-decade legacy to Grindstone Lake and Wingfield Park, supporting not only outdoor adventure tourism but also regional recovery following the 2024 Salt and South Fork Fires.

As XTERRA U.S. Tour Manager Steve Andrus notes:

“Our collaboration doesn’t stop at hosting a race. We’re committed to bringing high-quality experiences, supporting trail development, and enhancing Ruidoso’s already-vibrant festival atmosphere.”

Neighboring towns are also rallying behind this vision. Mayor Timothy King of Cloudcroft and Parks & Recreation Advisory Board member Amy Coor joined the celebration—underscoring the regional spirit of collaboration.

This is just one example of how XTERRA’s partnerships with municipalities, local businesses, and community leaders create enduring impact—well beyond the finish line.