Tough Mudder 2014
By Eric Pangilinan
Tough Mudder is an endurance event series in which participants attempt 10-12-mile-long (16-19 km) military-style obstacle courses. Designed and created by British Special Forces to test mental as well as physical strength, obstacles often plan on common human fears, such as fire, water, electricity and heights.
Tough Mudder brands itself as “probably the toughest event on the planet.” While I obviously cannot verify this I can attest to the fact that it is difficult if you come unprepared, and requires certain physical and mental grit to prepare for and complete. The event is comprised of roughly 25 obstacles over a 10-12 mile stretch. The obstacles run from the mundane (simply running though think mud) to the insane (being electrocuted with 10,000 volts via live wires). They have done a great job at creating a fun and crazy event; it seems that most people find out about it via word of mouth and social media.
We were the first in a group of 60 to start, which was pretty sweet. The weather was perfect- could not have asked for more suitable conditions- blue skies with the sun on full blast.
Tough Mudder was intimidating for me at first, but running through it, I realized that the race was not about who gets to finish the course first or who crosses the finish line the fastest. I felt personally that it was more about pushing myself to the limit and being able to do things I did not think I could do without the help of my team and by fellow mudders.
It was a fun experience for me, I saw all the great teamwork from different teams; how they pushed each other on and cheered for all.
The teamwork and the atmosphere there was awesome. Everyone was working their asses off.
At the end of it all, I saw the faces of proud and accomplished people, not from finishing the course, but from the fact that they all did it together. The team participation was both inspiring and remarkable; everyone had geared up and even wore costumes that stood out.
Everyone congratulated each competitor. I saw someone also hurt himself while doing the race; it was comforting enough to know that there are medics that are able to provide first aid to those that are injured from the race as our Team experienced on two occasions. Tough Mudder was very well thought out. It was an amazing day but after the event we all were tired and exhausted. I am happy and proud to have been a part of this event and look forward to next year. Hoorah!
Eric Pangilinan
Professional Training Coach
Innovative Fitness Kitsilano
