Spartan UK have announced their 2023 race calendar which consists of four events, 12 adult races, two endurance events and three kids races across the UK, with the first event being in West London on April 29, 2023.
In conjunction, the iconic fitness and wellbeing brand have also announced their partnership with British Obstacle Sports.
British Obstacle Sports is the national governing body for OCR (obstacle course racing) and Ninja Sport within the UK which oversees all obstacle sports events and disciplines.
The partnership will not only look to boost the recognition of the sport but also drive participation, increase awareness and education, and enhance grassroot pathways. It is exceptionally exciting times for both Spartan and sport and only earlier this year OCR was announced as part of the modern pentathlon competition for future Olympic Game events.
From 2023, all elite and age groups competitors will need to hold a British Obstacle Sports membership to compete in Spartan UK events. Competitors will be able to purchase a day membership to encourage newcomers and overseas competitors. By partnering, Spartan UK aims to further British Obstacle Sports reach and impact, in turn increasing the number of federation members that are required to be considered as an official UK sport.
The Spartan 2023 Race Calendar announcement also includes:
London West – April 29 – Beast, Kids Race
London West – April 30 – Super, Sprint, Kids Race
Midlands NEW VENUE – June 30 – Twelve Hour Hurricane Heat
Midlands NEW VENUE – July 01 – Four Hour Hurricane Heat, Beast, Kids Race
Midlands NEW VENUE – July 02 – Super, Sprint, Kids Race
South West NEW LOCATION AND VENUE – August 13 – Beast, Sprint
London South East – October 07 – Ultra, Beast, Kids Race
London South East – October 08 – Super, Sprint, Kids Race
As part of the partnership, British Obstacle Sports will also invest in the training of Race Referees through their Technical Officials Development Programme and will support Spartan in its continued pursuit of raising the standards of competitive racing in the UK.
Elected Director of British Obstacle Sports, James Burton said: “We are delighted that Spartan UK have agreed to partner with us and understands the long term value of an officially recognised governing body in delivering a safe, accessible, and professional sport. We look forward to working together in the coming months and years to progress OCR and other obstacle sports in the UK.”
Matthew Brooke, Managing Director of Spartan Europe, said: “We’ve long held an aspiration of having our sport formally recognised across the UK and through this new, sport-centred and exciting partnership with British Obstacle Sports I know we’ll achieve just that. Our commitment to grow the sport at every level and boost grassroot participation has never been stronger and so in 2023, together with our partners and community, we plan on making a real impact. Our partnership with British Obstacle Sports is only the start.”
