UKOCR

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!

Alan, Ian, and Will dive deep into the mud-splattered legacy of Rat Race events, from urban treasure hunts to global adventure epics. 🏁 Origins & Evolution – From bar crawls and treasure hunts to Mongolia and America, the crew traces Rat Race's transformation into a premium adventure brand. 🏃 Race Memories – Dirty Weekend, Deer Stalker, Runstock, River Rat Race, and more—each event gets its moment, with stories of pirate boat jumps, canal swims, and nettle-infested trails. 🎪 Festival Vibes – Runstock's family-friendly loops and Dirty Weekend's legendary after-parties bring the OCR spirit to life. 💬 Personal Firsts & Fails – Wrong shoes, flyer mishaps, and missed opportunities—Alan, Ian, and Will share the highs and lows of their Rat Race journeys. 💡 Community & Charity – The impact of Dirty Weekend on Children with Cancer UK and the supportive village feel of Deer Stalker highlight Rat Race's heart. 🎧 Vinny's Outro – A fresh perspective on today's Rat Race events rounds out the episode with insight and reflection. This episode is a celebration of grit, growth, and good times, perfect for OCR fans who've ever jumped a beer barrel or danced at a finish line. 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!  

From scorching Spartan battles to spooky seasonal fun, Alan and Ian pack this episode with race results, athlete updates, and plenty of laughs. 🌍 Race Highlights – OCR European Champs, Spartan Tenerife, and Spartan Abu Dhabi, where Libby Joyce battled the desert heat. Plus, British athletes securing strong finishes despite the challenges. 🎃 Seasonal Shenanigans – Paula's mischievous Advent calendar raid, wrapping paper woes, and drinks chat (Peroni 0.0 vs Vimto fusion). The duo also preview Nuclear Blackout Trick or Treat and a haunted maze adventure. 🏃 Running Nostalgia – Blackpool Illuminations, Manchester Cheshire Way, Huddersfield's pie-fuelled Pyathlon, and the endurance-testing Viper race at Delamere Forest. Alan and Ian even discover they unknowingly raced the same event. 🌐 Global Trends – UK athletes traveling far and wide, from Melbourne's High Rocks to Fort Lauderdale's DeKa World Championships. Plus, a muddy dog-friendly KERNOW Killer K9 race on the horizon. 🏅 OCR & Fitness Racing Updates – ATHX Finals in Birmingham, HYROX Excel's one-loop course, Hang On Run with Shylla Dahaney shining, and mixed reactions to upcoming HYROX events including a Mediterranean cruise. This episode blends race reviews, athlete performances, and community stories with the trademark Swift Half banter—perfect for OCR fans who love both grit and giggles. 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!  

This week we take a trip down memory lane with a twist—rewinding all the way to the very first Swift Half Podcast. Relive the laughs, the raw energy, and the spark that started it all, while reflecting on how far the OCR community has come. Alongside the nostalgia, we bring you fresh updates: 🏆 UKOCR Series –  🎖️ The Awards – 🌾 Farmyard Jam – It's a perfect blend of history and headlines—OCR stories past and present, stitched together for fans old and new.  

This week, Ian and Alan dive into a packed mix of OCR news, weekend stories, and fitness racing updates: 🏃 Race Rebranding & Weekend Highlights – Nuclear Races rebranding as Nuclear Essex, British Champs previews, and a new OCR crossover fitness race. 🎄 Movies & Christmas Lights – A cinema trip, Rochdale's festive switch-on, and creative ideas for honoring past OCR events at the UK Awards. 🥇 OCR Awards & Race Updates – March 28th in Kilmarnock brings medals, disco, and celebrations. Plus, Black Friday deals, Spartan Sprint discounts, and the quirky new Total Warrior bottle-opener medal. 📱 Running Tech & Gear – From wind-cheating apps to dog radar devices, cold-weather running challenges, and waterproof kit deals. 💪 Fitness Racing Initiatives – Puma's London shoe launch, Deadly Dozen's "Deadly Barbell," and growing collaboration across fitness racing brands. It's a lively mix of race talk, festive fun, and future fitness innovations you won't want to miss! 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, Ian, and Will are back with another round of muddy reflections—this time diving into the quirkiest, grittiest, and most unforgettable OCR events from years gone by. 🧗‍♂️ From evacuation sock descents on "The Mountain" to cake-fueled chaos at Furlong Farm's 5K Cake-a-thon, the crew highlights the wild creativity of UK OCR events. Alan shares tales from Muddy Furlong, complete with pond slides and bargain entry fees. 🏃‍♂️ The trio revisit races like King of the Hill and the Saviour Race—born from a cancellation but remembered for its community spirit. Ian gives props to Zeus Race at Mud7, while Alan and Ian praise Dirty Dozen's legendary obstacle builds by Doug the Beard. 📏 Historical chaos reigns with mismeasured madness at The Suffering race weekend, where 5Ks became 9Ks and burpees were the price of failure. Urban Attack's BMX sprint format and indoor obstacles like Tsunami get a shoutout, alongside frosty regrets from Ian's cotton-clad Frostbite experience. 🎪 Airfield Anarchy and Retro Fest round out the episode with medal memories and muddy misadventures. The crew tease what's next—Dirty Weekend and a deep dive into Rat Race's wildest offerings  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 are back with a jam-packed episode covering everything from triathlon chaos to fitness racing futures: It's an episode that blends sport, storytelling, and strategy—with a splash of fermented orange juice and a dash of Coconut Grove confrontation 🏊‍♂️ Dubai T100 Farce – Lap count confusion, athlete voting, and what it means for race integrity. 🏋️ Hyrox Dublin & Beyond – Adventure-style formats, flex tickets, and penalty-laden doubles debuts. 🥇 Spartan & Ultra Updates – New trifecta medals, shield rewards, London South Ultra discounts, and Deca Ultra expansion. 🏃 Running in the Rain – Gear tips, anti-chafing hacks, freezer bag tricks, and Alan's article on wet-weather benefits. 🎧 Podcasting Insights – Audio quality, editing essentials, and why fewer voices make stronger conversations. 🔥 McTuffX & Fitness Futures – Ambitious new series, marketing strategies, and the Gladiator Experience at NEC 2026. 📚 Community & Awards – Joke books, patron giveaways, and a reminder to vote for the UK OCR Awards shortlist! 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 special episode, Ian, Alan, and Will take a muddy stroll through the history of obstacle course racing—sharing personal firsts, unforgettable challenges, and the races that shaped the UK OCR scene. 🧠 From zombie chases in Cambridge to hay bale hurdles at Dash of the Titan, the trio relive their earliest OCR experiences. 🏃‍♂️ They Discuss the Legendary race that was Tough Guy, Alan shares his  love with tales of hypothermia, canal crossings, and little concern for Safety., while Ian remembers the long cross-country grind before the chaos began. 🌌 Midlands memories surface with shoutouts to Scorpion Run, Reaper's night races, and the multi-format madness of Mud7. Will and Ian recall the shifting layouts and community vibes that made these events special and things get weird (and wonderful) with stories of rotting meat obstacles and themed zones from Bear Grylls OCR, while the crew looks ahead to future episodes— 🎧 Whether you're an OCR veteran or just love a good story, this episode is packed with grit, nostalgia, and the kind of banter that only comes from shared miles and muddy memories. 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!