More than Mud - Jake Ryan

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.

How Did You Get Into OCR Racing?

My mom did a Spartan Race in 2012 and I thought it looked really fun and started competing the next year!

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

My most memorable moment in OCR was racing the Spartan Race World Championship 2013 in Vermont and earning my first TriFecta at the age of 13.

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

Matt Kempson gave me a technique that really works well for the spear throw a few years ago and to this day, it is still working great. Also, Hunter McIntyre gave me a lot of training advice for obstacles I used to struggle with. I always struggled with the Hercules Hoist until he recommend towel pull ups, and now I can do it with ease!

What personal challenges has OCR has helped you overcome?

The incredible people of OCR and their stories. Also, see how much stronger I have become inspires me to continue.

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

I have won my age group at many events, like Merrel Down and Dirty. I placed top 20 at Battlefrog, when I was only 14. I also placed 2nd overall in a Spartan Race open heat and do pretty well in some of the elite Spartan Race heats I have done.

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

I started racing at 13 years old. I am now 16. I play soccer and run track for my high school. I also enjoy making YouTube videos of races, training, and other adventures! My channel name is JMR_Spartan.

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

Right now I feel like many of the events I have been doing for a while, are starting to get easier then they original were. I think that OCR events should have more obstacles, and some more challenging obstacles. I still feel like OCR favors runners rather then people that do not focus on running quite as much. Also I would like to see a competitive team aspect of the sport so that more competitors will be known and have a better chance for sponsorship.

 Photos courtesy of Spartan Race

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