Every obstacle course race (OCR) presents a unique test of strength, grit, and determination—but how do you decide which event plays to your strengths? As we end the year and approach championship season, you have many ways to finish strong.

Whether you're driven by the need for speed, the pursuit of an endurance challenge, or the desire to compete alongside the world’s best, there’s a championship event for your ambitions. 

Keep reading to learn about five of the most popular upcoming championship events. Anyone can compete in one of these races in an open or age group division, though there are also qualifying heats to consider if you want to crank up the competition. Will you commit? 

OCR World Championships (OCRWC): Best for an Epic Destination

Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA

For those who thrive in both stunning and punishing environments, OCRWC is a race unlike any other. You’ll face world-class obstacles amid the jaw-dropping scenery of Mammoth Lakes. It’ll test not just your speed and strength, but your ability to adapt to wildly diverse terrains. This is the race where unforgettable landscapes meet unbeatable competition. If you’re chasing a personal best in a bucket-list location, OCRWC is your target. This is where legends are made.

Spartan 100M and Sprint World Championship: Best of Speed & Agility

Location: Hvar, Croatia

Featuring short, intense courses, Spartan Croatia demands your A-game in both pace and precision. The 100M sprint and Sprint Championship push your limits with fast, technical obstacles designed to test your dexterity and quickness. Ideal for runners who dominate the 5K and 10K, this is your race to sprint past the competition. Speed and finesse will be your keys to victory in Croatia, where every obstacle is meticulously designed to challenge your timing and agility. 

World’s Toughest Mudder (WTM): Best of Insane Event

Location: Central Florida

The name says it all: WTM is a 24-hour endurance test designed for those who thrive in the face of insanity. This isn’t a race; it’s a war of attrition where unbreakable willpower is the key to victory. You can sign up on your own or with a team of up to four Mudders. With grueling terrain and relentless obstacles, WTM pushes you to conquer the impossible, hour after hour. For those wondering how far you can push your limits, WTM will give you the answer.

Spartan Trifecta World Championship (TWC): Best of Die-Hard Community

Location: Sparta, Greece

Completing the Trifecta is a badge of honor in the Spartan community, and the Trifecta World Championship is where the most committed Spartans come together. This race isn’t just about physical prowess; it’s about the bond you share with your fellow Spartans. Conquering the Sprint, Super, and Beast in one weekend is as much about mental endurance as it is physical. Here, Sparta’s ancient history meets modern athleticism, making every step feel like you’re part of something greater.

Spartan Beast and Team World Championship: Best of OCR in the World

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi’s championship event is the pinnacle of OCR, bringing together the best athletes from around the globe. This is where the elite come to prove themselves on a course that blends harsh desert conditions with world-class obstacles. With a focus on endurance, strategy, and sheer willpower, this event is designed for those who want to compete at the highest level on a world stage. Every mile in the desert heat tests your resolve, and every obstacle is a step closer to proving you're among the best.

Ready to Pick Your Podium?

Every one of these championship events brings its own blend of excitement, challenge, and reward. Whether you want to test your speed, build up your community, or experience the thrill of competing on a world stage, there’s a podium with your name on it. The only question left is: Which challenge will you conquer next?