If you were to ponder the question "who's the nicest guy in obstacle racing?", no doubt many names would pop into your head but I guarantee at the top of most people's list is Mr Richard Pringle. His enthusiasm, motivation and ability to overcome obstacles (of every kind) would be hard to surpass. That's why I'm absolutely thrilled with the announcement that his career in obstacle racing has taken an exciting new turn. Richard has been appointed Spartan Race UK's new Operations Director.

Richard is the founder of RPCC (Richard Pringle Combat Conditioning), and has developed massively popular fitness classes around the Hastings area, as well as forming the RPCC Elite obstacle racing team. For me, UK obstacle racing has been a brighter place since their crew have been on board.

In this role, Richard will be support the new Director, Dan Tuffnell, who we interviewed last month here, and will be focusing on course design, race day management, promoting Spartan Race UK and heading up the new SGX Spartan coaching division.

Richard is clearly over the moon with the appointment: “The core values of Spartan Race are the very same values that I hold myself, both professionally and personally, so this is an amazing opportunity for me. To be asked to join the team of the best obstacle racing series in the country is a great honour.”

The real winner here though is Dan Tuffnell, who said: “I am thrilled to have Richard on board. He’s an iconic figure within obstacle racing and fitness training in the UK. Working with Richard, we intend to provide people across the country with opportunities to grow, develop and become part of the Spartan community.”

It's going to be an interesting period for Spartan, following the mixed year they've had and, in some respects, Richard has his work cut out for him, but the brand certainly seems to be on a mission to put right any past issues. Only time will tell, but I'm sure if anyone can bring positivity to it, Richard can... no pressure RP 😉

For more news , tips and info about obstacle course races and mud runs. Follow Mudstacle on: Twitter, Facebook and Youtube.