25-07-2025
Ballito obstacle course racer ready for international challenge
Ballito's Aristo Nolan is heading to Sweden to represent South Africa at the 2025 Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) World Championships.
Organised by Swedish Athletics in collaboration with Tough Viking, the championship will take place in Gothenburg from September 11 to 14, drawing elite athletes from 140 nations. Competitors will tackle challenging terrain and endurance-testing obstacles.
Nolan (28), a seasoned athlete and founder of Taurus Performance, earned his place on the South African national team after three years of dedicated training and regular podium finishes at elite competitions.
'I've always loved trail and cross country running but needed something more challenging. So, OCR was right up my alley,' he said.
The former amateur rugby player will take on two events: The 3km elite short course featuring roughly 20 obstacles and the 12km standard course with around 40 obstacles.
'This is more than a race,' said Nolan, who also serves as Head of Strength and Conditioning at Umhlali Preparatory School. 'It's a chance to make our country and community proud.'
Beyond his athletic achievements, Nolan is a qualified sports scientist and mentor, known for his commitment to youth development through sport. He also coaches the Ballito Dolphins rugby teams and continues to inspire the next generation of athletes locally and beyond.
Nolan credited his sponsors for making this journey possible, including Rewilding Southern Africa, Taurus Performance, Yowie Fitness and On The Move.
'These brands have gone above and beyond to support my journey. Their belief in me and in this sport means everything.'
Training across Sugar Rush Park's rugged tracks, Holla Trails' varied terrain and The Training Ground at Linc has provided the ideal OCR preparation.
'These spaces are my training home,' said Nolan. 'Every sprint, every grip rep and every lift has been part of a bigger goal.'
'I am going to give it my all, physically, mentally and emotionally. Representing South Africa is an honour, and I will be leaving it all out there in Sweden.'
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