UKOCR

In this special 5-year anniversary episode of the Swift Half podcast, Ian and Alan celebrated their milestone by reflecting on OCR's evolution over the past five years and discussing the future of both the sport and their show. They shared personal insights about OCR's current state, including concerns about market saturation and entry-level race opportunities, while also exploring new developments in fitness racing and sponsorship partnerships. The hosts engaged in an "Ask Alan Anything" segment where they answered listener questions about their podcast history, favorite guests, and future plans. They concluded by discussing the podcast's future direction, with both agreeing to continue evolving the show while maintaining their core format, though they acknowledged a need to adapt with thw changing times  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Adult language warning - this episode contains adult language, please bear this in mind when listening  This week's Patreon chat is all about race‑season plans, volunteering wins,  making OCR more inclusive and racing abroad Wendy and Bea share their goals for 2025—Wendy returning to racing after a year of volunteering, and Bea dedicating her season to giving back after smashing Limitless. We dive into junior race support, accessible setups at TMHQ, and standout volunteer perks like the 13 Valleys Ultra package. We look ahead to the 3K Series, British Champs, Tartan Warrior, and a packed awards weekend, plus the brilliant idea of Nuclear's volunteer dry robes. Alan also breaks down the new adaptive‑friendly scoring for Limitless, with Bea cheering the changes. The episode wraps with Alan chatting to Wil Chung about racing overseas—travel tips, race‑day hacks, and how to make international OCR trips actually enjoyable. Follow Wendy here Instagram Follow Bea here Instagram Follow Wil Here Instagram  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!  

This week on Swift Half, Ian and Alan cover a huge mix of life, laughs, and OCR madness—plus a few spicy opinions along the way. 💙 Valentine's Day Tales From impromptu run‑walk dates and Morrisons meals to tapas triumphs (and rubbery calamari), the lads compare their Valentine's Day experiences and the rise of themed restaurant menus. 🏙️ Leeds Adventures & Rugby Rumbles They dive into the quirks of Leeds city centre, questionable customer service, and Oldham Rugby's ongoing fan‑relations drama. Alan shares his wisdom‑tooth recovery saga, while Ian tests out Fanta Zero. 🏃 Parkrun Goes Viral Valentine's Park in London smashes attendance records with 2,333 runners. Influencers? Podcasters? Holiday hype? Theories fly—and themed runs like Easter Bunny or Halloween Park Run get floated. ❄️ Winter Olympics & New OCR Events Curling debates, clever speed‑skating tactics, and a fresh OCR event on the horizon: the Alzheimer's Society Seaside Scramble. Details are still emerging, but excitement is building. 🌨️ Winter Notes Prep With brutal weather expected, the duo look ahead to the Endurance League's Winter Notes race and reflect on the recent chaos at the Barclays Marathon in the US. 🔥 Team News & Tunnel Madness Nuclear Phoenix is no more, rising from the ashes is a new tem with potential roster boosts incoming. Plus, the mind‑bending Tunnel Race in Bath—200 laps through a mile‑long tunnel over two days—is officially on the calendar for March 2026. 🏋️ OCR & Running Round‑Up HIROX Vegas, Deadly Dozen youth events, UK OCR chatter, and the pros/cons of massive run clubs. Alan also gives a shout‑out to SportsShoes.com for standout customer service.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

This week we're joined by Tough Mudder HQ heavyweights Matt Brookes and Karen Trickey for a deep dive into everything shaking up the OCR world. From World's Toughest Mudder 2026 to the evolving relationship with Spartan, nothing is off the table. Matt and Karen pull back the curtain on some of the new course features coming to WTM—yes, including the much‑whispered Morning Glory—and share early insights into how the event is evolving for 2026. We also rewind to the standout moments of 2025, celebrating the athletes, obstacles, and stories that defined the season. But that's not all. We explore the brand‑new Hex Medal Collection, the launch of the Tough Mudder Trifecta, and the gear choices that are winning over the community—right down to Alan and Matts love of shoes  It's an episode packed with transparency, nostalgia, and a look ahead at what's next for the world's muddiest family.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan powers through a toothache, shows off his DIY core board, and somehow ends up debating northern accents, oat‑milk lawsuits, and why he's currently fuelled by cow's milk instead of beer. Ian brings the chaos with fitness trends gone wrong (yes, someone runs a 6‑minute mile just to justify fast food), questionable race branding like "Hyathlon," and the latest hybrid racing gossip. They dive into: • The dog‑friendly OCR • AI vending machines behaving badly • Spartan's halftime challenge • DEKA's big marketing opportunity • OCR series updates & adaptive athlete wins • Judges get pay at Deadly Dozen • Six Nations predictions and England's chances It's fast, funny, and full of the usual Swift Half tangents — from dodgy Amazon deliveries to sea‑creature TV shows.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

This week, Alan sits down with Gavin Hogarth to dive into the world of Tartan Warrior and the thriving OCR scene at Fit Body Farm. Gavin shares what's coming up for this year's event weekend — from the 3K Championships to the new 400m course and junior races — and the philosophy behind designing courses that challenge seasoned racers while staying fun and accessible for newcomers. They look back at the success of past obstacles and community favourites, explore the logistics of hosting the British Obstacle Sports 3K Championships, and talk about the unique challenges of planning races around life on a working farm. Gavin also opens up about the origins of Fit Body Farm, how a 115‑year‑old dairy farm became a buzzing fitness hub, and the evolution of their HIROX simulations and Friday Night Rocks competitions. Alan and Gavin round things off with a tour of Scotland's scenic gems — from castles to the Isle of Arran — and why OCR in the Scottish weather just hits differently. A blend of passion, community, and pure OCR grit.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Your Weekly dose of current news from the OCR, Fitness Racing and adventure running scene with Pub landlord Alan and Regular Ian This weeks its a bit different as Alan and Ian are joined by Adam from Aimwell Events and Megan from World Obstacle to discuss the questions around the OCRWC26 sent in by our listeners  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Ultras, OCR Chaos, and Big Industry Shake-Ups** Alan survives a gritty 50K ultra, while Ian opts for rugby and lemonade. The lads chat booze myths, zero-alcohol Peroni, and the genius idea of recording a podcast to release in 25 years. Fresh from HYROX Manchester, they break down "Friday Night Lights," a world record relay attempt ruined by a timing chip, and the joys and headaches of volunteering. Mud Monsters volunteer perks get a shout — along with a plea for clearer merch options. The big topic: the open letter from 307 athletes across 23 nations calling out OCRWC Ireland for sky‑high accommodation costs and murky pricing. Does the OCRWC response really cut it , Alan and Ian push for real answers while inviting listener questions. They also cover  new Spartan and Tough Mudder ambassadors, Courtney DeWalter carrying the Olympic torch, and the buzz around Tartan Warrior's new obstacles. Plus: British Champs training days, Deadly Dozen's South Africa success, and HYROX' new qualification rules — including the controversial "same-country doubles" requirement. The episode wraps with a look ahead to the Running Show and its stacked speaker lineup.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!  

Alan is Joined by Spartan Fans, Nikkifirefly and graham Wells to discuss the upcoming spartan season.   Covering all  five Spartan events, focusing on venue details, race specifics, and travel recommendations   Exploring various Spartan race events and accommodations, including discussions about the new "hex" medal concept and how many you could earn in one weekend   Checkout spartan at https://uk.spartan.com/ Follow Nikki at Instagram Follow Graham at Instagram  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan and Ian fire through a packed episode covering rising OCR costs, season passes, and whether monthly subscriptions could make racing affordable again. They bounce from Beer to Manchester's new Thunderdome, with a detour into credit scores and Born Survivor's "pay monthly" entry model. Park Run culture gets a lively debate — from global competitiveness to bizarre incidents — before the focus shifts to kids' OCR, junior race ideas, and the upcoming HYROX Youngstars event. The pair dig into community, nostalgia, and bargain‑hunting (including Alan's throwback Cliff Bar haul), then spotlight the Imber Ultra and the confirmed five‑race UKOCR Series backed by British Obstacle Sports. There's news on Tough Mudder and Spartan price rises, Alan's upcoming wedding‑day ,Tough Mudder, and James Burton joining to unpack the governance updates, BOS integration discussions, Theres a call for data‑savvy volunteers, and excitement for Manchester HYROX and the UKOCR Awards. A fast, fiery episode packed with big opinions, big updates, and big changes coming to OCR.    If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan, Lynsay McEwen, and Sancha Martin dive into the chaos, cold, and community spirit of Scotland's winter OCR scene. From missing McTurf FOMO to icy lollipop obstacles, mud traps, and the legendary pipe‑band race starts, nothing is off‑limits. They debate the worst obstacles ever invented, and unpack why McTuff keeps pulling massive crowds despite its brutal conditions. Alan also shares big news on upcoming MacTuff events — including a Knockhill return and kids' courses, and a Yorkshire expansion — before the trio close with a heartfelt tribute to Alexander Thompson. A fast‑paced, muddy, and very Scottish episode celebrating the grit and heart of OCR.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!  

This week, Alan and Ian dive into a packed episode covering everything from icy OCR battles to questionable beverage choices and the future of obstacle sports governance. They swap stories about recent drink experiences — from Alan's unfortunate BrewDog encounter to Ian's bubble‑gum pop indulgence — and debate the folklore of "Coca‑Cola water" as a supposed health tonic. The conversation turns to OCR with reflections on McTuff The Last Stand, including the community's tribute to Alexander Thompson and the cancellation of the competitive wave. Alan previews an upcoming interview with Lindsay McKeown and Sancha Martin, while both hosts admit they may be done with winter OCRs after past brushes with hypothermia. They also celebrate Scottish OCR's place among the UK OCR Awards' top 10 shows. From there, they break down the podcast awards results, the razor‑thin margins between nominees, and the kudos they received from across the pond. Race chatter continues with the Trigger Race, the ongoing Spine Race, and a concerning safety incident involving threats toward a participant. This leads into a thoughtful discussion on free speech, safety, and the withdrawal of humanitarian runner Sarah, before the mood lifts with the story of a 17‑year‑old Australian who accidentally ran 50 km instead of 8. The hosts also touch on the Bristol Marathon and its trail‑based alternative. Alan and Ian then explore the Bristol Trail Marathon, debating whether road runners are being set up for a shock and whether a trail half or metric marathon might have been a smarter option. They also chat about Jamie's bargain‑bin Vaporflys and the idea of converting them for trail use. The episode shifts to the world of HyROX, where the surprising Surf dating‑app partnership raises eyebrows. Ian previews the upcoming HyROX Coaching Summit in Twickenham, while Alan celebrates snagging a better hotel deal for the awards. Ian shares his experience at Deadly Dozen, a unique fitness facility inside a former power station, complete with Jacob's Ladder and industrial‑style training zones. The pair also touch on the National Running Show, Manchester High Rocks, and Alan's tips for scoring free food through running challenges. They wrap up with a look at the potential dissolution of FISO, what it could mean for UK obstacle sports, and whether UIPM might be the next step — acknowledging that more clarity and expert insight will be essential.  If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

In this special season‑wrap episode, host Wil Chung sits down with elite athletes Becky Neal and Chris Shipley for a deep dive into everything that defined the 2025 OCR season. From standout races to breakthrough performances, the trio break down the highs, the surprises, and the athletes who made their mark this year. There are also special guest appearances in this episode too - We will surprise you with those!! Expect honest reflections, sharp analysis, and plenty of laughs as the team share stories from 2025 Whether you're reliving the season or catching up on what you missed, this episode brings the perfect mix of insight, personality, and OCR passion. Follow Wil chung  on  Instagram by Clicking Here or on YouTube by Clicking Here Becky Neal is on Instagram Here Chris Shipley is on Instagram Here If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about UKOCR by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

In this week's episode, Ian and Alan have a small reflection on their journey to episode 260 and the loyal listeners who've stuck with them through every pint and podium. With shoutouts to fans in the UK and Brazil (and a cheeky nudge to Ireland), they invite listeners to share their favourite inside jokes ahead of the milestone celebration. 🍻 From Bud Light to root beer, the duo dive into beer nostalgia, bottle cap frustrations, and festive food hoarding—Paula's freezer space warnings included. 🎆 New Year's Eve tales roll in, with Alan showing his age and Ian enjoying cottage pie Bhuna and board games. Training resolutions are back on the table (for the 468th time). 👟 Alan's running streak continues with 10-milers and new year bargains, while Ian battles outlet store sizing woes. They unpack January's quiet gyms, social media fitness fads, and the mystery of age-graded scores. 💪 The adaptive athlete survey at WTM sparks serious discussion:  responses indicate a strong support for podiums, and a call for change. Plus, Savage Race's US downsizing and UK events like Winter Fan Dance and McTuff get a spotlight. 🌍 From World Champs team reshuffles to the Blitz Challenge's green-suited dash for cash, the episode is packed with updates, laughs, and a look ahead to the UKOCR Awards—only 5 spots left! If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

In this episode of Never Stumped - The Adaptive OCR Podcast, host Jamie Gane and Dawn Jolleys discuss the competitive landscape for adaptive athletes at World's Toughest Mudder (WTM) and the lack of podium recognition. The adaptive movement is "definitely growing", and this episode addresses the possibility of adding a competitive element for adaptive athletes at WTM.  Jamie Gane, a World Obstacle adaptive race director, outlines a two-system approach for WTM: a non-competitive system for personal challenges and maximum mileage, and a competitive system for classified athletes only. Please take 2 mins to complete our survey and let us know whta you think about podiums for adptive athletes at Worlds Toughest Mudder  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfp2HiH1p11P5LFIzsJ1heEGe-iZy-usjLhY6GE0IunMvSVNA/viewform?usp=header   If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan and Ian share holiday updates, from alcohol-free beers to quiet Christmases, before diving into the big stuff: World's Toughest Mudder 2026 rule changes. From "Morning Glory" obstacle penalties to the "Weight to Go", they unpack the impact on race strategy, fairness, and athlete fatigue. Alan previews a special episode of Never Stumped on adaptive athlete podiums, while Ian praises Hyrox for leading the way in inclusivity. They also tackle the upcoming vote to dissolve World Obstacle, raise eyebrows at USA Pentathlon's use of "Ninja Warrior," and mourn the loss of Transworld Sport — a show that shaped generations of sports fans. The episode rounds out with marathon debates, gear gripes (especially for female athletes), and a reminder to grab your tickets for the UKOCR Awards before they're gone. Want to leave us a voice note then drop it to admin@ukocr.com or whats app it to Alan 07951757079 If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan and Ian have a cosy, chaotic, typical Swift Half blend of OCR chat, Christmas leftovers, Hybrid racing and community updates. In this festive‑flavoured episode, Ian and Alan swap Christmas stories, from Secret Santa OCR survival kits to surprise Tough Mudder infinity tickets. They dive into the highs and lows of this year's Christmas ads, explore alcohol‑free dining gems, and even plan a potential tapas‑style meet‑up in Sowerby Bridge. The pair chat about listening bars, tech‑free pubs, and the joy of gifts that hit the mark — including Ian's long‑awaited model kits. There's also the long‑overdue patron prize draw, updates on the OCR Awards, and a reminder to get those votes in before January 11th. From BBC licence debates to inflatable kettlebells in Stockholm, kissing‑booth Christmas races in Sweden, and the wild concept of ATHX Air flights to Paris, the episode is also packed with quirky festive finds suggested by the pub regulars They round things off with HYROX updates, McTuff race planning, and the importance of mapping out your 2026 race calendar. If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan is joined by Wil Chung and Gavin Hogarth for a deep dive into the full shortlist for the 2025 UKOCR Awards. From standout athletes to unforgettable events, the trio break down every category, share insights from across the OCR community, and celebrate the people and races that made this season special. Whether you're passionate about elite performances, grassroots heroes, junior athletes, or the events that brought us all together, this episode gives you everything you need to cast an informed vote. ✅ Ready to have your say? Click the link to vote for your favourites in the 2025 UKOCR Awards — and make sure your voice helps shape this year's winners. VOTE HERE 📣 Don't forget to share the voting link on social media to help spread the word and celebrate the athletes, organisers, and volunteers who make OCR what it is. 🎟️ Want to be there on the night? Book your seat for the UKOCR Awards here: BOOK A SEAT If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

It's the most chaotic time of the year, and the Swift Half crew are back with a festive twist! 🎄 This week's episode mixes mince pies with mayhem as the gang unwraps their Secret Santa surprises—expect laughter, banter, and maybe a few questionable gifts. But it's not all tinsel and crackers: 🏃 Breaking News: BOS call an emergency meeting that could shake up the OCR scene. 🥇 Podium Drama: DEKA athletes can double dip—what does it mean for podiums 🧩 Deadly Dozen Institute: A new challenge beckons, promising grit and glory. 🙌 Volunteers in the Spotlight: The unsung heroes finally get the headlines they deserve. Whether you're here for the festive fun or the latest OCR updates, Episode 251 delivers a stocking full of stories, laughs, and community spirit. If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!

Alan and Ian celebrate a milestone episode with a packed mix of race results, gear talk, and community updates: 🏋️ AFX Pro Competition & Limitless Challenge – Weekend highlights, top teams from the AFX Pro finals, Alex Yee's marathon breakthrough, and praise for adaptive athlete Bea and her team. 📊 Podcast Stats & Gear Releases – Strava mileage shoutouts (including Alan's Mate - Jamie's 2,400 miles!), listener binge stats, and new fell-running shoes from Original Mountain Marathon. 👟 Puma Hyrox Deviate Elite – Bright pink, bold tread, and Ninja wall testing—set to launch February 19th. 🏟️ London Event Challenges – Judge shortages, wall ball congestion, and lessons learned for smoother race management. 🤝 OCR Volunteering & Race Updates – Opportunities at Overlord, HYROXS compensation offers, Spartan's 300 Collective, and British success at the Deka World Championships. ⚡ Controversial Coaching Incident – Debate over athlete intervention at a world championship, plus news on the UK OCR Awards launch and East Midlands DEKA's September return. It's a milestone mix of competition results, gear insights, and community stories—perfect for fans of OCR and fitness racing If you have any questions about the show or would like to explore advertising opportunities, feel free to reach out to us at admin@ukocr.com. 👉 Learn more about us by clicking here💖 Enjoy what we do? Support us on Patreon for as little as £2 per month ☕🍺 or treat us to a coffee or beer — we truly appreciate it!