University of Limerick is set to become the epicentre of elite Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) this summer, as it plays host to the first-ever European 400m OCR Championships from July 18th to 20th, 2025.
This landmark event, secured through a successful bid supported by University of Limerick, Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau, Fáilte Ireland, and Limerick City and County Council, will welcome approximately 300 top-tier athletes from across Europe to compete in this highly technical sporting event.
While OCR is a widely recognized sport across Europe and the globe, this will be the inaugural European Championships for the 400m format.
The event will also mark Ireland’s first major international OCR competition, further establishing Limerick as a premier destination for elite sporting events.
Competitors from over 40 countries—including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine—will travel to Limerick to put their strength, agility, and strategy to the test.
Male and female athletes will compete in individual races, while team relay competitions will feature male, female, and mixed categories.
Speaking at the launch event, Councillor Sean Hartigan, welcomed the event, saying: “We are thrilled to welcome the European 400m OCR Championships to Limerick. Our city has the right facilities, infrastructure, and sporting culture to host an event of this scale. Limerick is a city full of edge on the Wild Atlantic Way, and we look forward to extending a warm welcome to athletes and supporters from across Europe.”
Sergej Dikun, President, Obstacle Course Racing Association of Ireland (OCRA Ireland), expressed excitement about the event, stating: “We’re delighted with the support we have received to date as we strive to create an extraordinary experience for athletes, their supporters, and our partners. This is an incredible opportunity to showcase Ireland as a global destination for elite OCR competitions and hope that on the back of its success we can attract more OCR competitions to Ireland.”
The European 400m OCR Championships add to Limerick’s growing reputation as a hub for major international sporting events.
This summer alone, the city will also host the European Dodgeball Championships and the Atlantic Youth Touch Championships, reinforcing its ability to attract high-calibre competitions and athletes from around the world.
Karen Ronan, Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau, said, “Bringing hundreds of athletes, coaches, and supporters to the region, the championships are set to provide a significant economic boost to local businesses, hospitality providers, and tourism operators. The event underscores Limerick’s growing prominence in the global sporting landscape.”
Unlike traditional races, OCR challenges competitors not only physically but also mentally.
The sport demands strategic planning, decision-making, and adaptability under extreme conditions, making it one of the most exciting and dynamic endurance sports in the world.
David Ward, Sports Events Development Manager, University of Limerick Conference & Sports Campus, said, “With the sport of Obstacle now on the Olympic agenda for LA28, its growth and popularity is expected to increase on a global scale. We are delighted to play our part in promoting the sport by being announced as host venue for the inaugural European OCR Championship 400m. This event demonstrates the endless potential of our world-class campus as a major events and sports tourism destination.”
For more information on the European 400m OCR Championships and how to attend, visit https://european-osf.org/400m-ec