UIPM Secretary General's Message: Why everyone can – and should – join us for the first UIPM Obstacle World Championships

I’m incredibly proud to invite you to the inaugural UIPM Obstacle World Championships – a milestone event accessible to everyone, from seasoned obstacle athletes to enthusiastic newcomers. This isn’t just a competition, it’s going to be a celebration of community, athleticism and adventure.

This will be the first time an obstacle event is organised directly by the Olympic sport governing body UIPM, in partnership with the Chinese Modern Pentathlon Association (CMPA), and hosted at a world-class facility built for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

This first part of a four-year collaboration – with strong support from leading obstacle partners – marks a new era for our sport.

Open to all – and open for a reason

To reflect the inclusive spirit of this movement, we have made the entry process simple and open:

• Athletes can register directly for the competition – with no qualification barriers.
• This event supports the ongoing integration of the obstacle community at national level.
• It is an opportunity for athletes to compete on a global stage, no matter where you are starting from.

Whether you are part of the OCR, Ninja, Spartan, or Pentathlon world – or just curious – this is your chance to be part of something special.

The final, and most festive, event of the season

Mark your calendar: this will be the last major event of the 2025 season for the obstacle community, and it’s designed to be unforgettable. Here's why:

• A post-season challenge for pentathletes to sharpen obstacle skills and test their limits.
• A fun, family-friendly experience, blending sport with sightseeing, culture, and camaraderie.
• Exciting team events in the 3K format – because competing with friends is half the joy.

Big names, big moments

We are bringing together the best in the business. Expect to see:

• World record holders in both genders for the Pentathlon Obstacle 70m and Obstacle 100m courses.
• World champions from OCR, Ninja and Spartan 100m events.
• Influencers and community leaders from across the Obstacle and Pentathlon world.

Are you a content creator or influencer in the space? We’d love to connect with you–help us spread the excitement!

What makes the 400m course so special?

For this competition we are also launching something new: the Obstacle 400m course, a bold test of speed-endurance. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:

• Be part of history by competing for the first-ever title of world champion in each age group.
• Experience a thrilling mix of 100m classic obstacle elements and Spartan-inspired challenges.
• Push your limits with a race that rewards toughness, strength and technical skill.
• Show your family and friends what you are made of via UIPM’s live global broadcast.

Embrace the Great Wall – and the spirit of challenge

This October, join us in Beijing for a one-of-a-kind sporting experience. Whether you are racing for a title, testing your skills or simply soaking up the atmosphere, you will be part of a global movement redefining Obstacle racing.

Click here to register for the UIPM 2025 Obstacle World Championships.

Are you ready to embrace the Great Wall?