No Stopping Samuel "Shades" Koehler

When a 14-year-old legally blind athlete leaves your film crew in the dust—literally requiring a gondola rescue—you know you're witnessing something extraordinary. Samuel "Shades" Koehler exploded onto the 2022 OCR World Championships stage with a guide, unwavering determination, and a pace that proved disability is nothing but a narrative others impose on you. Get ready to meet the racer who didn't just conquer Stratton Mountain; he completely redefined what's possible in obstacle course racing.

One of MudGear's favorite experiences during the 2022 Obstacle Course Racing World Championships was watching Samuel "Shades" Koehler take on the 15k up Stratton Mountain. Shades is 14-years-old, legally blind, and unstoppable! Alongside his guide and family friend, Joey, Shades had 100% obstacle completion in all 3 of his events. He actually shaved over an hour off of his 15k time. 

Funny story. MudGear's cameraman was trying to keep up with Shades and Joey, but the mountain was just too much. "I need to pause for a second. Y'all go ahead, and I'll catch up," our guy said. HE DIDN'T CATCH UP! Only after a gondola ride back to the base were we finally able to film again.

Samuel's parents, Debbie and Josh, are incredible... and Rachel (sister) is worthy of her own feature. COMING SOON!