Developing OCR Together in Europe

Background Sport of OCR is rapidly increasing its popularity, but standards are missing. Our aim was to set up these standards on all levels, create and reinforce networks, create standards for the sport and methodology for the training. Our general aim was to increase participation in sports events and in turn improve general fitness. All this on the background of ongoing pandemic, which stressed even more the necessity for good shape and healthy and sustainable lifestyle. Objectives Overall objectives of the project were to connect Czech, Slovak and Polish OCR racing scene on all levels - governing bodies, race organizes and sports clubs, so they would collaborate and unify structure of OCR races - disciplines, distances and obstacles. Another important objective was set standards for coaches - to develop a certified education of coaches and training program that would follow practices of healthy movement and improve overall fitness of participants and general public. Implementation We have organized 5 meetings - 1 kick off meeting and 4 training camps. At these camps all parts of OCR sport community were represented. At each training camp we have focused on different sport aspect of OCR. Representatives of governing bodies, race organizers and sport clubs discussed best practice. Coaches received structured education focused on sport of OCR. Athletes focused on different obstacles - we have published comprehensive training methodology as a result of these meetings. Achievements Czech, Slovak and Polish OCR association have unified standards for OCR races. Races follow the same structure, distances, sets of obstacles and consult schedule of races.48 athletes received training on different aspects of sport of OCR and became influencers of the project.6 coaches passed exam and received certificate "OCR coach - Class 3".Sharing portal with was set up at www.ocrhub.eu8 videos, articles on training and complete training methodology was shared on the portal.