GRANTS, N.M. - The Mount Taylor Winter Quadrathlon, an annual Quadrathlon winter race, has been an important part of the Grants community for 43 years, drawing participants from even beyond New Mexico to Mount Taylor. This four sport winter race challenges participants to bike 13 miles, run uphill for five miles, ski uphill for two miles, and snowshoe uphill for one mile, from downtown Grants to the summit of Mount Taylor, before reversing the course to the finish line.
The origins of the Quad remain somewhat mysterious, with the original concept lost to time. However, some of the race’s founders are still around, Quad board member Kendra Brown explained.
Over the years, the Quad has maintained its format, though technology and participant numbers have evolved. Brown explained that skiers now have more options with Alpine touring skis and ski-mo skis, adding “an element of excitement” to the race. Despite a decline in participants from the 1990s partially due to more winter events and a challenging poor snow year, there is optimism for a resurgence with better conditions next year. “We hope next year with good snow we’ll be back to our normal numbers,” Brown said.
The primary mission of the Quad is to “generate economic activity in Grants” and showcase the area’s stunning landscapes and local outdoor recreation opportunities. “We plan for the Quad year-round,” Brown explained, adding that the board meets monthly, switching to weekly once January begins. “It’s a pretty serious effort. It takes a lot… from the year-round board members and of course, on race day, so many community members come and help us.” With this event being an organized year-round effort, it requires extensive planning, permitting, and the invaluable support of community volunteers. Brown emphasized, “The volunteers are absolutely key.”
“The Quad has a great impact,” Brown said, further explaining, particularly in fostering a love for outdoor sports among young people. The Kids Quad starts as early as age three, encouraging participants to continue racing through high school and beyond. Many board members have grown up through the program, volunteering in high school and now dedicating their time.
While the exact number of local athletes is uncertain, the race had 131 participants. However, a typical year usually consists of 200 to 300 participating, with the highest being around 600 in the 1990s. Despite this, the Quad continues to attract participants from beyond New Mexico, continuing to be a testament to the enduring spirit of endurance and community engagement.