One of the UK’s fastest growing obstacle course event businesses, Rough Runner, has appointed Promote to manage its UK consumer PR. The specialist sports and fitness agency will devise and deliver national and regional campaigns to increase the profile of the eight events which already attract over 25,000 participants a year.

As the popularity of obstacle course events continues to grow, Rough Runner has established a unique place in the market, with courses that include hugely popular obstacles inspired by game shows such as Total Wipeout, Ninja Warrior and Takeshi’s Castle.

Combining the physical challenge with fun and teamwork, it’s no surprise that Rough Runner races have proven especially appealing to groups, with corporates and university students flocking to take part. Next year events will take place in Sussex, Oxfordshire, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and London.

Commenting on Promote’s appointment, Jonathan Geitner, CEO of Rough Runner, says, “As much as the ability to raise profile for our events was key to this appointment, we also wanted an agency which would be a real partner for our company. We were so impressed with team we met from Promote – they clearly have incredible experience in delivering participants for mass market events and races – but also quickly recognised the wider business goals for the business and how they might be able to contribute. We’re very much looking forward to working with them as we plan for our 2019 events.”

Promote’s CEO, Sue Anstiss, adds, “We’re so excited to get started working with Rough Runner, raising profile and sourcing new partnerships for the 2019 events. We love the fact that whilst traditional OCRs have become renown for intimidating military obstacles that threaten to freeze, burn, lacerate or electrocute participants, Rough Runners can enjoy a complete physical challenge that includes hugely popular obstacles such as Sweeper Arms, Buoy Zone, the Big Tipper, Big Balls and a 40m water slide. Competitors, who can race over 5km, 10km or 15km, all finish with the chance to take on the legendary Gladiators’ Travellator. We can’t wait to take part ourselves.”

The appointment follows a busy end to 2018 for the Berkshire based agency, with new client wins including the British Triathlon, Quest Wales adventure race, CJ Skinhealth, Dunlop and Mizuno. The agency has also delivered two innovative consumer campaigns: #SheRows for British Rowing and #gocoach for England Athletics.