I don’t usually get nervous about runs. I know if I HAD to, I could push through a run. Obstacle courses make me a bit more nervous. I don’t mind the mud, but I’m not comfortable with heights and that’s putting it mildly. I know what to expect with a run, but with obstacle courses, you never quite know what is around the corner. Add in the fact that the obstacle course has a reputation of being one of the most challenging courses out there, and my anxiety goes ups quite a bit. Despite all that, I am excited for next weekend and my first Tough Mudder.
Time is running out, but it’s not too late to sign up for the Tough Mudder race series coming to Seattle on September 16th and 17th. With 20+ obstacles and close to a half marathon in distance, it’s a perfect opportunity to get out of a training rut and challenge your body. Held at Palmer Coking Coal Company, just 45 minutes outside of Seattle, the terrain includes all sorts of challenges with wooded areas, gravel pits and trenches of cold, dark mud. Plenty of muck and obstacles for everyone, the half offers a 5-mile course, without the ice and electricity. There are times where I wish I had signed up for this option rather than the full, but I need a challenge that will push me both physically and mentally. Plus my teammates are doing the full and we’ve committed to finishing together, so there’s no going back now. The full offers 10 miles of obstacles and black coal infused mud to traverse. They’ve warned that it’s especially chilly at this location, which gives me more reason to hustle through. Registration includes a headband, finisher performance t-shirt, beer at the finish line and insurance. Waves fill up fast. Make sure to sign up for early Saturday if you’re looking for fresh mud. New this year, participants 14 and older can join in the adrenaline rush.
There are tons of different options when registering. You can opt for the competitive wave, an extra $20 upgrade and the first wave on Saturday morning. You can make it a little mini family vacation with a family package. A family package offers two mini-mudder tickets and two spectator tickets. You can opt to have your team run it for a charity, they have a list of over 100 charity options to choose from. Make a weekend getaway out of it with friends, the memories will be priceless. I’m not sure if I’m more excited for the obstacles, hanging out with friends or crossing the finish line. I get butterflies just thinking about September 17th and can’t wait to make some memories. Find a team, form your own or just go try it solo, Tough Mudder welcomes everyone. One of the many things I am impressed with in this race is the willingness of the participants to help each other. Watch some of the videos on-line and you will see strangers helping strangers conquer obstacles and help each other through the course. Although I am doing it with a team, it is great to know that everyone can get help on the course.
They also offer a discount for anyone registering for 3 or more of their events, perfect for the adrenaline junkie. I’m going to start out with a single, but I’ve heard these are addictive. We’ll see on September 17th whether or not I become a Tough Mudder addict. My hardcore friend will be doing his sixth Tough Mudder with our team, not sure I have six in me, but time will tell. Regardless, I know it will be fun. I’ll be challenged and will get to know my friends a little better by the finish line. Contact us at the Run Oregon Blog if you’re looking for a team, we’d love to have you join us! Like running events, the more the merrier and we welcome running friends to join our team. Check out the LAST CALL discount code for a 25% discount or email us at the blog for details. It’s the last chance to get in on the fun and experience the thrill of Tough Mudder.
Tough is Calling. How will you answer? Tough Mudder is no ordinary mud run – it’s an experience. An escape from the everyday. At Tough Mudder, you won’t just face your fears – you’ll knock them down. You’ll go over, around, and through them. You’ll test your strength, stamina, and grit, and you’ll help the Mudders around you to do the same.’
