Pentathlon GB, the governing body of Modern Pentathlon, welcomes the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) decision to include Modern Pentathlon in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games with its new discipline, Obstacle Course Racing (OCR).
The future of Modern Pentathlon as an Olympic sport was at risk due to concerns about its ability to meet the 2025+ criteria, which emphasised being accessible and inclusive. To address this, the sport’s International Federation replaced the equestrian discipline with Obstacle Course Racing (OCR), and this change was approved at the UIPM (The Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne) Congress in November 2022.
By replacing riding with the more accessible discipline of OCR, Modern Pentathlon can be practiced in more countries by more people, increasing the number of competitions, athletes and spectators. The development of the new discipline is an opportunity for growth worldwide.
Trafford Wilson, CEO, Pentathlon GB says: “Pentathlon was created in 1912 as the ultimate mental and physical test of the ultimate athlete, and we’re thrilled that Modern Pentathlon will continue to be an Olympic sport.
“Horse riding has been an honoured tradition in our sport and will always be a part of its rich history. We understand the announcement of the discipline change may be disappointing for some. However, every sport undergoes evolution, and no sport remains untouched by change. Modern Pentathlon has already seen the introduction of a number of new formats, including Laser Run, and is keen to challenge itself again to future-proof the sport. The IOC’s decision draws a line under the uncertainty surrounding Modern Pentathlon, signalling that it’s time to turn our gaze toward the future.”
Diana Hunter, Chair, Pentathlon GB says: “I‘m proud of how the Pentathlon GB team have worked together in preparation for this decision. In doing so, they have already been creating more opportunities for more people to get involved in the sport. The IOC’s decision will only enhance who, where and how we grow participation across the UK. We believe the development of the new discipline is an opportunity for growth worldwide. Our team and Board are committed to making Modern Pentathlon the fastest growing sport in the UK and to build upon our sport’s proud heritage and performance record.”
Wilson continues: “In the immediate future, Pentathlon GB will focus on retaining and supporting our staff and athletes through this change as we prepare for Paris 2024 and plan for the future of our sport, with the inclusion of OCR, beyond this Olympic cycle.
“Riding will absolutely remain a focus for the athletes that are preparing for Paris 2024, with OCR becoming a new discipline for athletes who are preparing for Los Angeles 2028.
“We remain committed to nurturing our talent, fostering their growth and providing them with the resources they need to excel on the world stage. Together, we will continue to push boundaries and overcome challenges.”
Pentathlon GB has been developing a new strategy to support the discipline change in preparation for the IOC’s decision, which includes its participation and inclusion approach, incorporating a para events calendar, a review of its athletes success pathway, and accelerated collaborations with strategic partners including UK Sport and British Obstacle Sports. In May 2023, Pentathlon GB secured new investment from Sport England, as part of its ambition to level up access to sport and physical activity. Pentathlon GB will receive £357,400 funding over the next two years, joining more than other 120 organisations that have been picked for their ability to improve access to sport and to tackle inequalities.
