More than Mud - Corey White

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?

Initially I found out through Facebook. One day a Tough Mudder ad showed up and at the time I accidentally clicked on it. As I started reading and learning more, I felt a spark that this was something I had to get into.

How do you describe what you do to people outside of the OCR community?

I tell everyone that it's the most fun they'll ever have. Whether you get the opportunity to run with friends or if you run alone, there's no other experience. Some people are confused why I would pay money to get dirty and cold but I always tell them the cold goes away and the mud washes off. It's the memories, new friends, and personal accomplishments that keep me coming back time and time again.

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

My first Spartan race was a complete surprise to me. I had done several Tough Mudders at the time but was told by the person I was running it with, not to be discouraged if I couldn't get through the obstacles because they were more independent and a little tougher.

I thought I'd fail about half of them before the race, but after I was finished the only obstacle that I failed to complete was the spear throw. Running my first competitive race and coming out of it the way I did was definitely something I will never forget.

What inspires you?

I get inspired by seeing what other people are capable of. I have always been a very competitive person who grew up paying sports. If someone was better or faster than me at a particular sport, I did whatever it took to become better. After seeing the people that do the OCR circuit regularly, it drives me to want to not only be on that level but to do everything in my power to surpass it.

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

Unfortunately I am still new to the OCR circuit so I don't have many races under my belt just yet, but after running the Atlanta Sprint I realized how much I really wanted to get into it. One of my main goals for this year is to reach a podium in one of my races. I've done a few just for fun and now have done two of them competitively and it's just a different feeling to push yourself that hard and know there will be some kind of accomplishment for it.

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

I think the present and future of OCR is very bright. Every day it seems like there is a new circuit opening up and every time I talk to friends there seems to be more and more that are finally deciding to race. As long as the camaraderie and encouraging atmospheres continue to thrive, OCR will do nothing but grow and draw more participants to it every day.

Photos courtesy of Spartan Race.

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