More than Mud - Lauren Kruppa

More than Mud is an article and interview series dedicated to documenting the incredible characters and stories that we come across in the world of OCR and outdoor adventure and endurance racing events. They range from everyday heroes to extreme athletes but all have unique and engaging stories to tell.

For free OCR training tips, get this powerful free OCR Guide: Warrior Strong - How Elite Athletes Become Resilient to Injury in Obstacle Course Racing

How Did You Get Into OCR Racing?

My sweet boyfriend was the one who got me hooked. When we first met, he asked if I wanted to tag along and be a spectator. I'm actually more of a team player than bystander, so not knowing what I was getting into I agreed. I raced alongside him, and have been addicted ever since!

How do you describe what you do to people outside of the OCR community? (and why you do it)

I tell them it's a test of what I'm really made of, and I push myself past the comfort zone. In the moment it may seem tough, but crossing that finish line makes everything second worth it. I've been an active person with sports and outdoor hobbies my whole life, but OCR takes that to a whole new level. It tests both my mental and physical strength.

What's been your most interesting or memorable moment in your OCR career so far?

It would definitely be my first race. Crossing that finish line with my boyfriend was just amazing. I had challenged myself and he was there to help me through it all. It really defined the teamwork that the OCR community has as well as the strength and support our relationship has. I knew that moment that I could count on him for anything.

What's the best training or racing advice you've ever received?

Never give up. As simple as this concept was, it can be hard to maintain this mindset through training and racing. Sometimes there are tough training days, where I'd rather sit on my couch with a Playstation. But then I think about my goals and the person I want to be and push through it. No one has achieved greatness giving up, ever.

What personal challenges has OCR has helped you overcome?

Being a mentally strong person. A few years back I was a victim of domestic violence. The process of building yourself back up is long and tiring. OCR helped me rebuild myself to the strong and confident person I was again. I learned to not listen to negativity and to believe in myself. Life handed me some sour lemons, but I made some pretty damn good lemonade from it!

What inspires you?

The ability to be able to participate in activities such as OCR. Not everyone is able to partake in such sports. I am fortunate to be blessed with a healthy body, a wonderful life, and a fantastic boyfriend/racing partner, so why not live life to the fullest. We are not here for long and life flies by quick, so I like to do all I can while I can.

Any race stats you'd like to share? Any goals for this year?

My two goals for this year would be to cut minutes off my race times compared to last year and to complete 90% of my races penalty free. I might be crazy, but we'll see how it goes!

What's something about you that others might find surprising?

Before OCR, I was a pageant queen and a published model. One of my biggest modeling accomplishment was being published in the UFC magazine. Pageants and modeling are quite different from OCR, but the variety definitely adds spice to my life. I was also a dancer, starting when I was about 3 years old. I continued dance through college. It was a strong passion of mine and my longest running hobby yet. The balance I learned from dancing has definitely come in handy in OCR.

What are your thoughts on the current state and future of OCR?

The sport is growing and I love it. The new trend to be fit and active is a fantastic trend. It's something the country really needs. I love the expansion that all race series are doing. Battlefrog going nationwide, Spartan going more global, it's fantastic! I love hearing that someone new has tried OCR. They were inspired and believed in themselves enough to sign up, and I can say that takes a lot of guts. I hope this trend keeps continuing!

Photo credits to Spartan Race and Rugged Maniac

For free OCR training tips, get this powerful free OCR Guide: Warrior Strong - How Elite Athletes Become Resilient to Injury in Obstacle Course Racing