Xavier Thévenard, a triple winner of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), a challenging long-distance footrace across the Alps, faced a significant health challenge in 2020 when he contracted Lyme disease after being bitten by a tick. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, often leading to flu-like symptoms and, if untreated, more severe complications. Thévenard believes the tick bite was a consequence of declining biodiversity, which can lead to increased human exposure to disease-carrying animals. Thévenard, now 38, has since become an advocate for biodiversity conservation, using his platform as an elite athlete to raise awareness about the connection between environmental health and human well-being. His personal experience with Lyme disease has motivated him to take a more active role in promoting ecological balance and the importance of preserving natural habitats. In support of this cause, Thévenard is the patron of the "Athletes and Biodiversity" residence, an event organized from September 28 to 30, 2026, in Ardèche, a region in southern France known for its natural landscapes and biodiversity. The event aims to bring together athletes, environmentalists, and researchers to discuss the impact of biodiversity loss on both nature and human health. The residence will serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, encouraging athletes to use their influence to support environmental initiatives. By linking the worlds of sport and conservation, Thévenard hopes to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious athletes and advocates.