A Lowestoft woman has returned from a global obstacle course competition more determined to succeed than ever before.

Joanne Ogogo, from Carlton Colville, took the transatlantic trip to Canada in October to represent the UK at the Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) World Championships.

The 32-year-old, who comes from a family with plenty of sporting pedigree, is relatively new to OCR, but undertook a programme of intense training and approached the competition with an ambitious mindset.

'In the build up to the championships I worked extremely hard,' said Miss Ogogo.

'I did lots of strength and conditioning work, running and also mental training with my brother Anthony.

'Beforehand I wanted to achieve top 30 in my 30-39 age group of 100 competitors, but when saw the standard of the other athletes I just thought 'I'm happy to be here!''

Miss Ogogo took part in the 3km solo event in Ontario, as well as the team relay.

Each competitor receives a band and, if they struggle to complete an obstacle, they have the option to give up their band and continue with the course.

'If you're really struggling with an obstacle then you just have to sacrifice your band because of what's to come,' explained Miss Ogogo.

'I couldn't have envisaged how difficult it was going to be and, because of how challenging it was, mentality was really important.

'Of those that lost their band I came sixth in my age group and ninth overall, which was better than expected and it was an amazing experience.'

In the team event, the trio of Miss Ogogo, Richard Willis and John Howard finished in 35th place.

As for the future, Miss Ogogo is determined to keep training hard and is already looking ahead to the next championships in October 2018, which will be held much closer to home.

'The next worlds is going to be in Essex, so it will be really important to have my family there supporting me,' she added.

'When I started OCR it was almost a competition against myself, but now I've been inspired to do really well in competition.'

Miss Ogogo would like to thank Waterlane Leisure Centre and East Point Sports for their continued support.