Adventurey, the company that produces the North American OCR Championships and the OCR World Championships, announced the location, and several additional details for the 2019 World Champs.
We’ve listed them below along with ORM thoughts on each.
Back in The U.K.
October 11 – 13, 2019. Kelvedon Hatch, Brentwood, UK. The site of Nuclear Races.
ORM Thoughts : We assumed as much. Financially, it just makes sense to make a (minimum) two year commitment for any venue. Ohio’s King’s Domain served as the venue for 2014 and 2015. 2016 and 2017, the event moved to Blue Mountain in Ontario, Canada. 2018 will see it returning to Gryffindor in the United Kingdom.
Revamped Team Relay Race
This year we reintroduced the concept of team based obstacles during the team leg of the relay. And basically, we fell back in love with them. So, watch out for several new obstacles tailored specifically for the team race in 2019. Additionally, Pro Relay teams must now be comprised of athletes from one nation (e.g. Team USA, Team Sweden). Open teams may continue to be mixed.
ORM Thoughts : Most of the pro teams were already country specific, but this may shake up the category a little bit, if there are last minute injuries, etc, and racers can’t have their first choice.
Expanded Age Groups
As a nod to some of the most inspiring athletes in the OCR community, we’ve expanded our divisions to now include 50-54, 55-59, and 60+ age groups. All will be eligible for cash prizes and podiums awards.
ORM Thoughts : The Grey Berets are rejoicing.
New Band System
With our growth and the ever-rising level of competition, we need more robust procedures to ensure the integrity of our results. To that end, next year’s event will bring more marshals, more photo and video review, and most importantly, a new completion band system. Details to follow in 2019.
ORM Thoughts : OCRWC has probably DQ’d more people in a few races than Spartan has done in 8 years. This is exciting as they continue to lead the way in this department.
FREE Bag Drop
Bag drop will be available and free for the entire weekend (Friday-Sunday).
ORM Thoughts: This seems like a no brainer. Not sure why this wasn’t always the case.
Streamlined Registration Process
Beginning next year, we’re going modify our packet pick up process to help alleviate crowds during the initial opening hours. In addition, athlete t-shirts will be pre-packaged with athlete bibs–so make your selection carefully during registration!
ORM Thoughts : Another no- brainer. However, people are SO excited for this event, 90 percent show up early, then complain about lines. Same thing happens at World’s Toughest Mudder every year. People freak out at packet pickup and blast it on social media. Then by the end of the event, it’s long forgotten.
Modified Qualifying Standards
While this is always a delicate balance, we’ve started making adjustments to our qualifying criteria, which includes: tightening up requirements, removing certain races, and adding plenty of new ones. A new program that will award wild-card spots to athletes will also launch in 2019.
ORM Thoughts: Let’s hope Terrain Race is off the list for 2019.
A New Race Format
We’re keeping this under wraps for now, but watch out for an entirely new and innovative race format during race weekend. It’s not been done in OCR before—but we’re sure you’ll love it!
ORM Thoughts: Could be awesome. Maybe not. #StayTuned
REGISTER NOW. It’s 25 percent off until November 12th. Adrian assures us this will be the ONLY discount available.
Matt B. Davis
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