The UCI cross-country Olympic (XCO) race at Mont-Sainte-Anne is a gruelling endurance race that demands a combination of strength, power, and technical skill. Competitors race on the iconic Mont-Sainte-Anne track, designed by Velosolutions Canada, which features numerous technical climbs and descents on rugged terrain. Unlike downhill events, where the start is individual and the fastest time is required, XCO events are organized as a mass start and take place on a closed circuit that competitors cover several times.

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