For many obstacle course racers, the thrill isn’t just about the mud, the fire jumps, or the barbed wire crawls; it’s about the adventure. Racing has become a passport to see the world, offering athletes the chance to experience new cultures, terrains, and challenges far beyond home soil. With OCRWC venturing outside the U.S. and Spartan Race expanding globally, the days of keeping your race calendar domestic are over.

With OCRWC expanding internationally and Spartan Race planting flags across continents, keeping your racing goals confined to the U.S. is no longer enough. The world is your course map.

In 2016, the door opened to more international competitions, with racers like Stefani Bishop and Manuel Di Geronimo already blazing the trail, literally and figuratively. Between them, they’ve raced across continents and learned the ins and outs of taking your training, grit, and gear abroad.

Here’s how they’ve turned their passion for racing into a global adventure and how you can too.

Stefani Bishop: Finding Yourself on the World Stage

A triathlete and seasoned obstacle racer, Stefani Bishop first represented Team USA at the 2014 International Triathlon Long Course World Championship in Weihai, China. That milestone marked her debut on the world stage and paved the way for numerous global competitions.

“Racing abroad is a unique way to travel,” Stefani says. “It’s a great way to experience sports from another nation’s perspective and to see how you measure up internationally.”

Choosing Your Race Destination

When picking where to race next, Stefani looks for a balance of challenge, culture, and legend:

“Is it legendary like Tough Guy? Is it something different than what’s offered stateside? Or is it in a location I’ve always wanted to explore?”

Saving Money While Traveling

Racing overseas can be expensive, but thoughtful planning helps keep it affordable.

• Do your research: Set flight alerts, compare booking sites, and follow deal accounts on social media for the best deals.

• Buddy up: Join race Facebook groups to find roommates or travel partners.

• Cook when you can: Stay in a place with a kitchen to save money and stay on track with nutrition.

Stef’s International Racing Survival Tips

• Pack smart: Always carry your race gear in your carry-on—lost luggage shouldn’t end your race.

• Food first: Bring your preferred pre-race nutrition; don’t rely on what’s available locally.

• Water safety: Always bring purification tablets.

• Adjust early: Start syncing your sleep and training schedule with local time at least a week before you travel.

Her all-time favorite race?

“Tough Guy, no question. Of all the races I’ve done, it stands alone. But I have a feeling Fuego y Agua Survival Run might top that list soon.”

Manuel Di Geronimo: Racing Across Europe (and Beyond)

Italian athlete Manuel Di Geronimo practically lives out of his gear bag. An SGX Coach and Spartan Race competitor, he’s tackled races in Italy, Spain, Austria, Poland, Germany, the U.K., and the U.S.

His first obstacle race was the 2014 Spartan Sprint in Rome, and he has been hooked ever since.

“I saw videos of the U.S. races and wanted to try them; they looked tougher and more organized,” he recalls.

U.S. vs. Europe: What’s the Difference?

“In the U.S., you need to be stronger. In Europe, you win if you run faster,” Manuel explains.

“In Chicago, racers complained about their legs. For me, it was my shoulder!”

Each country brings its own personality to the course:

• France: Lightweights, fast runners, and endless barbed wire.

• Eastern Europe: Tough, technical, and mountain-heavy courses.

• Italy: A growing OCR scene still finding its footing.

• Spain: “It’s a party! Warm weather, water, and an electric atmosphere.”

Manuel’s Top Race Destinations

• Orte, Italy: “Historic, scenic, and full of cold river crossings near Rome.”

• Austria (Ultra Beast): “Racing in the Alps, brutal yet beautiful.”

• Brazil: “Two mountains, two lake swims, and views that take your breath away.”

• Slovakia: “A mountain climb so steep I couldn’t walk for a week, but unforgettable.”

Despite the extremes, he wouldn’t trade it for anything.

“When I reached the top of the mountain, I thought, I’m so happy to be here.”

The Reality of Racing Overseas

International obstacle races push both body and mind. Freezing water, altitude, and cultural surprises are all part of the adventure.

Manuel recalls hitting hypothermia twice in Munich (“I was close to dying!”) and frozen lakes in France, but still plans to earn his Winter Trifecta, with races across the Czech Republic, France, and Poland.

“I run for fun, not to suffer. Whoever made Spartan Race must be funny, to make you want to suffer!”

Before You Go: Travel Tips for Racers

Before you pack your grip gloves and trail shoes, take these seasoned tips to heart:

• Always rent a car. Most race sites are far from the nearest city or airport.

• Check visa requirements. Every country has different entry rules.

• Mind your record. A DUI can prevent entry into Canada.

• Apply for passports early. Adults can apply online; children must apply in person.

• Stay flexible. Expect delays, detours, and culture shocks; they’re all part of the story.

Final Thoughts: Adventure Awaits

For racers like Stefani Bishop and Manuel Di Geronimo, racing abroad isn’t just about competition; it’s about connection, courage, and curiosity.

Each race becomes a journey through unfamiliar terrain and self-discovery, proving that obstacle racing isn’t confined to borders. Whether you’re scaling the Alps, swimming through Brazilian lakes, or sprinting through muddy English fields, every challenge becomes a story worth telling.

So grab your passport, lace up your shoes, and chase the next starting line across the globe.

Because the world is wide, the mud is deep, and your next great race is waiting.

Safe travels, racers. See you on the course.

About this Author

Samantha Wishner lives in Peoria, AZ, with her two daughters. An avid desert trail runner, she loves participating in Ultra OCR races. She is a 50-mile finisher at WTM and has completed 7 Spartan Ultra races across 5 countries.