Season Finale in Molveno: 9th in the XTERRA World Cup & 12th at the World Champs
- Kerri-Ann Upham
- Oct 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 6
The Stage is Set
Nestled in the Italian Dolomites, Molveno is where XTERRA reaches its peak. For one weekend, the world’s best off-road triathletes gather to take on the ultimate test: the XTERRA World Championships.
But this year, there was even more on the line.
2025 was the second year of the XTERRA World Cup, a season-long series linking the biggest races across the globe, rewarding consistency as much as brilliance. From the beaches of Greece to the green fields of Weston Park and the technical trails of Czech, every race counted.
The season ends in Molveno, with the Short Track finale deciding the last precious points before the World Champion is crowned in the full-distance race.
XTERRA isn’t just a race series, it’s a community, an adventure, and a monumental test of resilience. To stand on this stage as part of the elite field is something I dreamed about for years.
A Last-Minute Decision
If I’m honest, Molveno wasn’t on my 2025 calendar. After racing Weymouth 70.3 just two weeks earlier, my plan was to end the year there. But when I realised I had the chance to secure a top 10 finish in the World Cup standings, I couldn’t resist. This was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up — so I packed my bags and headed for Italy.
I arrived with no expectations, just the mindset to give everything I had left in the tank.
The Short Track – All or Nothing
The Short Track is XTERRA racing at its most intense, a 45-minute blast of full-gas effort, lap after lap of lung-busting climbs, slick corners, and technical descents, all in front of a roaring crowd.
Going into it, I knew this was my last shot at World Cup points. Despite heavy legs from Weymouth, I raced with nothing to lose. Every pedal stroke, every corner, I told myself: “This is a bonus, just go all in.”
When I crossed the line, I’d done enough. My performance secured me 9th overall in the XTERRA World Cup standings — my first ever top 10.
That result alone made the trip to Molveno unforgettable.
The World Championships – A Brutal Test
Two days later came the main event: the XTERRA World Championships — the pinnacle of off-road triathlon. The conditions were nothing short of horrendous. Freezing water, rain-sodden trails, and a bike course that turned into a complete mudslide. It was survival racing from the moment the horn went.
In conditions like that, comfort and warmth become more than a luxury — they’re a performance advantage. I relied on the same Bridgedale kit that’s kept me racing through every season this year, and it did exactly what it needed to: stayed warm, stayed dry, and let me focus on fighting the course, not the cold.
Despite telling myself it was “just a bonus,” the competitor in me wanted more. I wanted to show the strength I’ve been building all season. Instead, I found myself slipping, sliding, and fighting for control in conditions that punished every mistake.
Crossing the line in 12th place was a bittersweet moment. On paper, it was a huge step forward — from outside the top 20 two years ago, and a DNF last year after a crash, to now being solidly inside the top 15. But deep down, I knew there was more in me. Pride mixed with frustration — the hallmark of a performance that was both progress and motivation.
What I’m Taking Away
Looking back, Molveno summed up my season perfectly: proud of how far I’ve come, but hungry to keep climbing. The 9th place overall in the XTERRA World Cup is the highlight for me — proof that consistency pays off, that you can fight your way into the mix with the best in the world, one race at a time.
But I leave Italy with fire in my belly. Seeing the incredible performances from the women I’ve raced all year only motivates me more. I know I’ve still got big gaps to close — especially in the swim — and I’m ready to put in the work to see just how far this journey can go.
Looking Ahead
This season has been my best yet. From standing on podiums, to taking my first XTERRA win, to earning a place inside the world’s top 10, it’s shown me that the dream I once had as an amateur is now a reality.
But it’s also only the beginning. My trajectory is upwards, and the gaps I need to close are clear. Back to swim school, sharpening every detail, and building on the progress I’ve made.
XTERRA has given me the adventure of a lifetime this season — and in 2026, I want to come back even stronger. Because if this year has shown me anything, it’s that with consistency, courage, and belief, anything is possible.
Gratitude
None of this season would have been possible without the people around me. A special mention goes to my partner and coach, Rob, whose guidance, patience, and belief are the backbone of everything I do. From the daily grind of training to the emotional highs and lows of racing, he’s been in my corner every step of the way.
I’m also deeply grateful to my sponsors who provide the equipment, products, and support that allow me to perform at this level, and to my family, friends, and everyone who’s cheered me on across Europe this season.
Racing at this level is never a solo journey. Every message, every clap on the course, every brand that puts its trust in me — it all makes a difference.
As I look ahead to 2026, I’m proud to carry this momentum forward and excited to welcome new partners who share my vision of growing XTERRA and off-road triathlon, while chasing the very highest levels of performance on the world stage.
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