Riding his Anthem Advanced Pro bike and wearing a Giant Rev Pro helmet, Paton won the U.S. Cross-Country Marathon national title for the second time in three years. The event took place throughout Hollins University and Carvins Cove in Roanoke, Virginia, where the elite men competed on a 53.4-mile course.
“We were treated with a proper course for XCM National Championships this year,” Paton said. “It felt like a real race against the elements. It was hot, humid, and the 53 miles of singletrack were rugged. I’ve had a rough patch this season, and I’m so proud to have continued to trust in myself and my unique path forward."
Paton finished in just under four hours with a time of 3:59:21, almost four minutes ahead of silver medalist Bradyn Lange (Pinarello-Orange Seal).
The win marked a return to form for Paton, who had to fight through some bad luck and illness earlier this year. He had a strong start to his 2025 season, including a podium at the Whiskey Off-Road 50 in late April, but a crash derailed his hopes at the first event of the Life Time Grand Prix, the Sea Otter Classic, where he finished 18th. A month later he was forced to skip the second event of the series, Unbound Gravel, due to a sickness that worsened in the days leading up to the race.
“It means so much to take the victory today, and what’s even more important to me is feeling like I’m in love with the sport again,” Paton said. “My Anthem handled the job flawlessly, and I was really excited to debut the new XTR Di2, which was precise and efficient through the dust, and multiple creek crossings. I’m so thankful to have this opportunity and for the team behind me that has believed in me through all the highs and lows.”
Next up for Paton is the XCO national championship on July 19. After that, he looks to get back on track in the Life Time Grand Prix series at the Leadville Trail 100 MTB race on August 9.