2025 Life Time Sea Otter Classic

Cross-country (XC) racing at Sea Otter is en Fuego (“on fire”).

The Fuego presented by Specialized tests the fire of each athlete by way of sandy climbs and flowy singletrack of the Fort Ord National Monument. Your inner spark will ignite with the starting pistol to motivate your mind and body over this challenging and fun course. After traversing Fort Ord’s picturesque hills and trails, Fuego racers roll into *Casa Amigos to swap race highlights over lunch and a beverage.

Choose between three unique cross-country distances — Fuego XL, Fuego XC, and Fuego Short. Medals awarded to the top three finishers in each category.

Fuego XL presented by Specialized: Saturday, April 12, 2025

Turn the burners on high for the exciting Fuego XL, a two-lap mountain bike event covering approximately 70 miles and 7,800 feet of elevation change 

The Fuego XL presented by Specialized is also a qualifier for the iconic Race Across the Sky: the 2025 Leadville Trail 100 MTB, in Leadville, Colorado. All participants must start their 2nd lap by 2pm. Course closure for qualifying is at 4pm.

Fuego XC presented by Specialized: Sunday, April 13, 2025 

The boiling point is set at approximately 21 miles for this traditional cross country course that gains 3,500 feet over sandy climbs, flowy singletrack and Fort Ord’s diverse habitat and beautiful landscape. One of the most long-standing events at Sea Otter, the iconic XC race begins on Sunday and refines rookie riders into seasoned vets from the start to the finish line.

Fuego Short presented by Specialized – Junior Racers Only – NEW COURSE FOR 2025: Sunday, April 13, 2025

This new course for ouryoung riders (Grades 4-6) gives juniors a taste of the famous Sea Otter sandy climbs. Participants will start and finish at the Sea Otter Classic bridge with a new six-mile course on the Fort Ord National Monument. Parents: after you grab a front-row seat for the sizzling action, you can join your juniors for post-race lunch at Casa Amigos* by purchasing an additional lunch with registration. 

Interested in your very own Sea Otter Classic riding gear? Shop the store at the link below.