More than Mud - Shan Khan

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 New Year's Resolution goal this year was to complete a Spartan trifecta as my previous experience comes from Mixed Martial Arts, where I achieved an orange belt in Krav Maga. Wanting to challenge myself on a further level, obstacle racing seemed like the perfect vehicle to do that. It has been my best life-decision to date as it's hard to imagine my life without obstacle racing as I pretty much eat-sleep-repeat obstacle racing outside my normal work day.

What Are Some Challenges OCR Has Helped You Overcome?

Getting a full understanding of gratitude and really getting over my mental thoughts of comparing myself to others. As I've grown physically throughout the year, mental growth has mirrored the physical gains, and that has really helped my performance as well as my day-to-day happiness.

It's been a struggle as high hopes are held for myself and not having the races expected out of the gates had me take a great self-reflection of myself and understand that this is a step in the journey that will only make me stronger.

OCR has given me a much better grip (literally) on handling the obstacles that come whether it come to work, family, or racing, and really has taught me to appreciate every moment and think of the glass half-full, rather than half-empty.

What Does The OCR Community Mean To You?

It's a true blessing to be a part of it. It's hard to describe with words but it's a network of individuals that want to strengthen themselves while doing the same for one another. The positive energy is outstanding whether it be a training session or on race day.

The best part about it is seeing the struggles people have gone or currently going through, whether that be physical or mental, and how they not only survive through it, but thrive through it. The different backgrounds of people and the stories of how they get into OCR are truly outstanding and really give you a true appreciation for the sport and life in general.

What’s Your Most Memorable Moment In OCR?

By far, the Dallas Savage Race, where I raced in the Pro Wave and had a great start. Feeling very confident, being in the top 20 for most of the race, I got tripped up by Kiss My Walls (a horizontal rock climbing wall) and it took me about 15 tries and a lot of willpower to find a way through it.

My goal then changed from being a top finisher to finishing with my pro band. Gliding through every obstacle after, my nightmare was in the form of Savage Rig before the finish line. Trying method after method, nothing would click as my grip strength died after every attempt. However, OCR has instilled in me the no-quit attitude.

After about 3+ hours on the Rig, I finally conquered the rig and crossed the finish line with my Pro Band...in last place. A great lesson about grit and determination which helped fuel me to my best finish the next race after, the Dallas Beast.

Any Goals Or Race Stats To Share?

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

Photos courtesy of Spartan Race and Savage Race