European Masters break new ground on Obstacle in Madrid (ESP)

Forty-five Masters athletes from 14 countries gathered in Madrid (ESP) for a highly progressive 2025 Open European Championships.

With particularly strong representation from host nation Spain and neighbours France, the event took place immediately before the 2025 European Pentathlon Championships and provided a test for organisers and judges.

Senior athletes arriving in the Spanish capital were also able to get a glimpse of Masters athletes undertaking Obstacle for the first time officially and successfully negotiating the tournament course.

In total, 45% of efforts on Obstacle resulted in a clean finish, with records set by Women’s 30+ champion Julia Dale of Monaco (53.50sec) and Women’s 40+ champion Andra Novicka of Latvia (56.96), while two France athletes set new standards for the men’s categories: Julien Maratier 30.93 (40+) and Jean-Christophe Perrier 34.07 (50+).  

In addition to the individual competitions, there were Women’s and Men’s relays (11 teams in total) and Mixed Relays (eight teams).

Julia Dale (MON), Women’s 30+ champion, said: “Competing, and eventually winning, in my first Masters European Championship was an unforgettable experience. I had been a bit nervous because of a recent shoulder injury, but due to the diversity of the five disciplines, I knew I still had a chance, and most of all I wanted to gain some experience and learn from fellow Masters athletes.

“The obstacle course was quite tricky as most athletes have very little experience with it, but it was great to see everyone giving their best and learning along the way.

“While I am taking a bit of time off to recharge the batteries, I am already looking forward to the 2026 World Championships where I hope to compete in both individually and in the relay with my partner. The Masters community and competitions are truly special and I feel very lucky to be part of it.”

Jean-Christophe Perrier (FRA), Men’s 50+ champion, added: “The Masters Obstacles are an event like any other. Today, it poses difficulties for some of us who are not used to using our hands like climbers, for example, but it's not really different to an athlete who doesn't train for swimming and finds themselves struggling in the 100m event.

“One thing is certain: this event will allow the Masters to welcome more people into the all-round Pentathlon.”

Andrea Dell’Amore, UIPM Executive Board Member for Sport and UIPM Technical Delegate of the Championships, said: “I heard many positive accounts of the energy, spirit and enthusiasm that marked the UIPM Masters World Championships in Gyömro last year — a true revival for Masters Pentathlon. It was exciting to see that momentum continue here at the 2025 European Masters Championships in Madrid, especially with the successful introduction of obstacles for Masters.

“This was an important step forward, offering us valuable insights to begin shaping a more professional and accessible rule framework for Masters athletes of all ages. Just as important as writing the rules is ensuring that athletes understand them, so education and communication must now become a priority.

“What stood out to me most in Madrid was the strength of the community — engaged, supportive and full of potential. With the right support, the Masters category can grow into a vibrant and lasting pillar of the UIPM family.”

Results can be found here: https://www.uipmworld.org/event/2025-european-masters-championships