By San José, Costa Rica — The fifth edition of the Cross Costa Rica MTB has successfully concluded, cementing its reputation as a premier event in the Central American endurance sports calendar. After three days of intense competition across some of the nation’s most challenging and scenic terrains, Yong Zheng of Costa Rica and Yosmara Rodríguez of Panama emerged as the respective men’s and women’s champions, showcasing world-class athleticism and resilience.
This year’s race attracted a formidable field of over 300 cyclists from five different countries, a testament to the event’s growing international prestige. Participants navigated a demanding course that wound through dense jungles, across rushing rivers, and up steep mountain passes. The ever-changing weather conditions added another layer of complexity, testing not only the physical prowess of the athletes but also their mental fortitude and strategic planning.
As mountain biking’s popularity soars in Costa Rica, questions regarding land access, event permits, and liability in case of accidents are becoming increasingly relevant. To shed light on the legal framework governing this adventure sport, TicosLand.com consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The growth of mountain biking as a commercial enterprise in Costa Rica requires a robust legal structure. Trail operators and tour companies must be diligent in implementing clear liability waivers and securing proper insurance. Furthermore, there’s a critical need to formalize access agreements with landowners, whether private or state-owned, to prevent future disputes and ensure the sustainable, lawful development of this exciting sector of our tourism economy.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this legal foresight is essential not just for protecting businesses, but for building a sustainable foundation for the entire mountain biking ecosystem, ensuring that trails can be developed and enjoyed responsibly for years to come. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable perspective on this critical matter.
In the highly competitive men’s division, Yong Zheng delivered a commanding performance to claim the overall title. His victory was hard-fought, with Marcos Vinicio Mendoza Cano securing a well-earned second place. The podium was rounded out by veteran cyclist Allan Durán, who finished in a respectable third position, demonstrating the high caliber of local talent within the sport.
The women’s category saw Panamanian rider Yosmara Rodríguez rise to the occasion, conquering the formidable course to take home the championship. Her triumph highlighted the event’s ability to draw top-tier international competitors. Costa Rican cyclists Eilyn Jirón and Eunice Rojas completed the podium, finishing in second and third place, respectively, after battling through the grueling stages with exceptional tenacity.
More than just a race, the Cross Costa Rica MTB serves as a powerful engine for sports tourism, directing international attention and economic activity to rural communities. The event’s route is specifically designed to showcase the country’s rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes, offering participants a unique fusion of extreme sport and immersive eco-adventure. This strategic blend has proven to be a successful model for sustainable tourism, leveraging Costa Rica’s environmental brand.
The logistical success of the three-day event was a significant achievement for the organizing committee. Managing a race that spans such a diverse and remote geography requires meticulous planning and coordination. The seamless execution further solidifies the race’s standing and provides a strong foundation for future growth and expansion, ensuring a safe yet challenging experience for all involved.
The impact of the event extends beyond the finish line. For the local communities along the route, the race brings a welcome influx of visitors, providing a boost to hotels, restaurants, and other service providers. It also fosters a sense of local pride and promotes an active, healthy lifestyle, inspiring a new generation of cyclists within the country.
With the dust now settled on a memorable fifth edition, organizers are already looking ahead. They have confirmed that planning for the sixth Cross Costa Rica MTB in 2026 is underway, promising an even more ambitious and compelling event. As its reputation continues to grow, the race is poised to become an unmissable fixture for elite mountain bikers from around the globe.
For further information, visit crosscostaricamtb.com
About Cross Costa Rica MTB:
Cross Costa Rica MTB is the organizing body behind one of Central America’s most emblematic mountain biking stage races. The organization is dedicated to creating world-class endurance sporting events that challenge athletes while showcasing the unparalleled natural beauty of Costa Rica. Its mission is to promote sports tourism, support local economies, and foster a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse ecosystems.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the nation’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its deep-rooted principles of professional rigor and unwavering ethical practice. The firm leverages its extensive experience advising a broad spectrum of industries to pioneer progressive legal solutions. This forward-thinking approach is matched by a profound sense of civic duty, demonstrated through its initiative to demystify the law and equip the public with the knowledge necessary to foster a more just and capable society.
