Gadsden athlete Courtney Washington named to Team USA for OCR World Championships in Sweden

Courtney Washington, a Gadsden resident and physical therapist, told the Gadsden City Council she has been selected as one of eight women representing Team USA at the OCR (obstacle-course racing) World Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden.

"This September, I will be traveling to Gothenburg, Sweden to compete in the OCR World Championship. I have been selected as one of only eight women to represent Team USA," Washington said at the podium. She said she will compete in the short course, the standard course and a team event; the competition begins Sept. 11 and runs through Sept. 15 and will be livestreamed on the OCR World Championship Facebook page.

Washington said her competition budget is about $4,000 and she had raised roughly $3,500. She described fundraising plans including donations via apps (handle: @courtwash13) and selling small novelty ducks for $1. The athlete and her parents were recognized by council members, who praised her achievement and wished her a safe trip.

Council members and Mayor Ray Ford highlighted the community’s pride in Washington. Councilman Wilson asked about the trip budget and Washington answered the funding questions during the meeting.

Sponsors Washington named in her remarks included Absolute Fitness, Northeast Orthopedics, The Rail, The Alley, Team 1 Toyota (Gadsden), Never Surrender, C & L Lawn, Outdoor Legacy, Wealth Management, The UPS Store and individuals Kent Haney and Nancy Elser.

Council members encouraged residents to follow the livestream and support Washington’s fundraising efforts.