Equality & Inclusion.
Who the sport is for
People come to obstacle racing with different backgrounds, experiences, abilities and ambitions. Some want to compete internationally. Some want to finish their first race, join a club, volunteer or coach. All of that is the sport.
Our commitment
OCRA is committed to an environment where people are treated with dignity and respect, and to reducing unnecessary barriers to taking part — in recreational participation, competition, clubs, coaching, officiating, volunteering, leadership, education and Team Ireland alike.
Participation should not be restricted because of someone's background, ethnicity, nationality, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, socio-economic circumstances, previous sporting experience or current level of ability.
Adaptive and disability inclusion
Obstacle sport adapts well. Courses, obstacles and formats can be adjusted to support athletes with different physical, sensory and other requirements.
OCRA wants adaptive athletes to have genuine opportunities to take part, train, compete, develop, and represent Ireland where a competition pathway exists. Coaches, clubs and organisers should consider accessibility when they plan, not when someone asks.
Inclusion and competitive categories are different things
An inclusive sport still has competition rules. Eligibility for a particular category can depend on age, discipline, classification and the requirements of international competition.
Those rules should be published clearly and applied consistently. What they should never be is a surprise discovered at registration.
What clubs and coaches can do
Consider accessibility and appropriate coaching adaptations. Use respectful language. Plan for a range of abilities in the same session. Look honestly at what stops people coming back, and at whether your club feels like somewhere a new person can walk into.
Discriminatory behaviour
Discriminatory, abusive or harassing behaviour is incompatible with taking part in OCRA activities. Serious incidents are dealt with under Complaints & Disciplinary.
Doing better than a statement
Saying everybody is welcome costs nothing and changes little. Making it true means listening to participants, identifying the barriers that actually exist, and changing how the sport is delivered.
OCRA wants to work with clubs, race organisers, coaches and community organisations on that — particularly with people who do not currently see themselves represented in the sport. If that is you, tell us what would help.