Introduction

  Obstacle Australia is committed to fostering elite talent in Obstacle Course  Racing (OCR) and ensuring that the best athletes represent Australia at international events.  This document outlines the selection process, eligibility criteria, and expectations for athletes  aspiring to join the Australian National OCR Team and compete at the World OCR  Championships.   

 National Team

 The Australian National OCR Team represents the country in  international competitions. Selection is determined by the OCR Sports Committee (the  Committee), which consists of elected athlete representatives.  

 Development Squad (Dev Squad)

 The Dev Squad is a preparatory group for athletes aspiring to qualify for the National Team. It provides a supportive environment for training,  competition preparation, and information sharing.  

  The Committee is responsible for: 

• Selecting the National Team.  
• Managing the Dev Squad.  
• Communicating qualification pathways and event information.  

The Committee members are elected annually at the Board AGM and work to ensure fair  and transparent selection processes.  

Eligibility Criteria

 Athletes can qualify for the Dev Squad through one of the following: 

• Achieving a top 5 finish at a designated qualifying event OR meeting a designated  time standard. (Qualifying partner events are on the OA facebook page)
•  Submitting an application for consideration.
• Being nominated by an existing Dev Squad member or the Committee.

Application Process

 To apply for Dev Squad membership, athletes must:  

1. Complete the Dev Squad application form.  
2. Agree to the Dev Squad membership terms and conditions.  
3. Maintain an active interest in OCR competition and progression.   

 Eligibility Criteria

 To be considered for the National Team, an athlete must:

• Be an active member of the Dev Squad.
• Achieve a podium finish (1st, 2nd, or 3rd place) at a designated National Team qualifying event OR meet additional performance benchmarks.
• Submit an application to the Committee for selection consideration.
• Confirm availability and readiness to compete at the World OCR Championships.

 Application Process (For National Team athletes must)  

1. Submit a completed National Team application.
2. Confirm membership with Obstacle Australia. 
3. Accept all National Team responsibilities and expectations.  

 Development Squad Members:  

• Commitment: Members should aim to progress towards National Team selection, either immediately or in the future.  
• Engagement: Active participation in training discussions, sharing insights on rehabilitation, nutrition, and competition strategies.  
• Hiatus Provision: Members may take a short break (up to 1-2 years) for personal reasons such as family, work, injury, or financial constraints while remaining in the Dev Squad. Athletes returning from hiatus may be required to demonstrate  competitive readiness before resuming full participation. 

 National Team Members: 

 Obligations:  

• Maintain active membership with Obstacle Australia. 
• Represent Australia with integrity, sportsmanship, and dedication. 
• Adhere to team commitments, including pre-event training and administrative requirements.  

• The Committee will provide updates on qualification pathways, event opportunities, and training recommendations primarily to Dev Squad members.  
• Dev Squad members are encouraged to foster a culture of mutual support and positivity.  

 Code of Conduct & Removal Policies

•   All athletes are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and sportsmanship. Any breaches, including unsportsmanlike conduct, anti-doping violations, or failure to meet team obligations, may result in removal from the Dev Squad or National Team.  
• Athletes may also be removed based on consistent underperformance or failure to meet competitive benchmarks. 

 Appeals Process

•   Athletes who wish to appeal a selection or removal decision must submit a formal written appeal to the Committee within 14 days of notification. 
• Appeals will be reviewed by an independent panel to ensure fairness and adherence to Obstacle Australia’s dispute resolution policy.  

 Qualifying Events A list of designated qualifying partner events for both the Dev Squad and the National Team, along with required performance criteria, are published annually on the Obstacle Australia website & Facebook page. For the OCR 100m, 3k, 10+k & 5k or team race. Adaptives can use wave times, proof from Strava or written approval from coaches.