OTTAWA, ON (August 25, 2025) – Canada’s top endurance mountain bikers took to the trails of Thunder Bay this weekend for the 2025 Canadian XCM Mountain Bike Championships, where a mix of elite athletes in different age-groups battled for national titles on a demanding course carved through the forest.
Being the third edition of the XCM Championships and hosted for the second consecutive year by the Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club, the event featured a 32.03-kilometre loop packed with technical singletrack, challenging climbs, and fast gravel descents. Elite riders completed three laps (96.09 km total), while championship categories raced two laps (64.06 km), testing stamina and strategy across all levels.
In the Elite Men’s race, Sean Fincham powered to victory for the second year in a row at exactly 4:17:06.4, adding another national marathon title to his growing accomplishments. On the women’s side, Haley Smith returned to the podium, this time at the top, by finishing 5:25:13.5 after an incredible effort that showcased her signature consistency and grit.
Beyond the elite podiums, national titles were awarded across a range of age-group categories, showcasing the depth of Canada’s endurance mountain biking community. Callum MacIsaac (U17 Men) and Hanna Abbink (U17 Women) led the charge among U17 athletes, while Nolan Nyitrai (Junior Men) delivered a strong solo ride to secure his category win. In the Masters divisions, Kyle Fry (Masters Men 35–44), Christine McKinley (Masters Women 35–44), Paul Cobham (Masters Men 45–54), Karla Bailey (Masters Women 45–54), and Michael Davidson (Masters Men 55+) each claimed national titles after impressive performances on the course. The event also marked the introduction of new Canadian Championship categories, including U17, Junior, and Masters 35–44, 45–54, and 55+, expanding the reach of XCM racing and celebrating athletes across generations.
Adding to the weekend’s energy, four-time Olympic track cyclist Curt Harnett, a Thunder Bay native, made a guest appearance Friday evening. The Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club presented Harnett with a $2,000 donation to support his work with World Bicycle Relief, recognizing his ongoing efforts to empower communities through access to bicycles.
Cycling Canada extends its congratulations to all newly crowned champions and thanks the volunteers, organizers, and Thunder Bay community for delivering another unforgettable edition of the Canadian XCM Championships. For full results visit Cycling Canada’s official event page.
