World Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) World Championships: A Thrilling Global Event for Athletes and Spectators
- MEI
- Nov 20, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 13
The World Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) World Championships, organized by World Obstacle, is a premier multi-distance competition that brings together 5,000 participants from around the globe. Held in urban or outdoor settings, this mass-participation event highlights the excitement and athleticism of obstacle course racing, a sport set to debut in the Modern Pentathlon at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
About the OCR World Championships
The event combines elite competition with mass participation, creating an electrifying atmosphere for athletes, spectators, and the host city. With 5,000 racers, 2,000+ spectators and officials, and a dedicated expo space, the OCR World Championships is a multi-faceted event designed to maximize economic, social, and cultural benefits for the host city.
Event Overview
Year: 2025.
Duration: 3–5 days.
Venue Requirements:
A stadium with athletics tracks for the main event.
An expo venue for up to 50 vendors.
Recent Editions:
San Jose, Costa Rica – 2024.
Genk, Belgium – 2023.
Hosting Requirements
Venue
A stadium with athletics tracks to host races and obstacle challenges.
Expo space to accommodate 50 vendors showcasing products and services.
Financial Commitment
Host City Investment: USD $50,000.
Logistics
Accommodation: Low-cost accommodation options for 2,500–4,000 participants for 5 nights (participants cover their own costs).
Event Infrastructure
Meeting rooms and dining halls for dinners and awards ceremonies.
Road closures and medical services for race safety.
Volunteers: Access to local volunteers for event operations.
Media and Audience Reach
Global Media Coverage
900 million media engagements through press releases and newswire distribution.
Social Media Impact
Enhanced city profile through extensive engagement on World Obstacle’s social media platforms.
Benefits of Hosting
Hosting the OCR World Championships offers host cities significant economic, promotional, and social advantages
Economic Impact
An estimated ROI of €3.44 million, driven by participant spending, ticket sales, and local business activity.
Global Visibility
Association with a dynamic sport gaining international attention, including its debut in the 2028 Olympics.
Community Engagement
Increased local participation in obstacle course racing.
Opportunities for volunteerism and grassroots sport development.
Tourism Boost
Attracts thousands of international participants and spectators, showcasing the host city’s appeal.
Multi-Year Opportunities
Host cities can submit bids for multi-year and multi-event contracts, ensuring sustained benefits.
Why Host the OCR World Championships?
"The World Obstacle Course Racing Championships is more than a race—it’s a global movement that inspires community, challenges athletes, and creates lasting economic and social impact. Hosting this event positions cities at the forefront of modern sports innovation."
