Joel Payeur

Country: Canadian

"Trail running is my freedom."

I grew up in the beautiful Canadian outdoors, surrounded by mountains, forests, and trails that called my name.

For me, the trails aren’t just about competition; they’re about exploring those places most people never see, feeling that wild freedom in every step. My favorite race distance? The 100km mark. It’s grueling, but it’s also the ultimate test of body and mind. That 100km distance is where I truly learn what I’m capable of.

Off the trails, I’m a contractor and volunteer firefighter. Whether I’m constructing buildings or saving lives, my personal philosophy stays the same: keep moving. No matter what life throws at you, one foot in front of the other. 

My most memorable race experience was winning 1st place overall on day 3 of the Costa Brava Stage Run in Spain, with my mom waiting at the finish line.

My mantra? "#fuckbeingaverage." If you're not pushing boundaries, you're standing still. Ain’t nothing to it, but to do it.

When I’m not running, I’m hitting the gym, hiking, camping, skiing, and traveling. But when the trail call? I’m out there, seeking that rush, that feeling of freedom, and testing my limits again and again.

Joel Payeur

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