Mustang Mud Run: Wet And Cold Fun

MADISON-  Cold temperatures, morning rain and overnight heavy downpours were not obstacles to deter the 255 participants who took to the 5K course on the campus of Madison Academy for the 2018 Mustang Mud Run.

Hosted by the Ladies Association of Madison Academy (LAMA), the Mud Run featured participants ages six to 63 representing five states who braved the raw weather conditions on a trek through 15 obstacles that included four creek crossings and 11 man-made obstacles plus natural terrain run obstacles that presented a real challenge for those brave enough to tackle to the second annual event. Fifty-four percent of those mudders who faced the course were female.

“We did have to adjust the course and eliminate two of the creek crossings because the water was too deep after the heavy rains,” said Terri Speir, LAMA President and Mud Run co-chair. “We had a lot of returning racers including a father-son team who said the course was even better than last year.”

Besides the natural obstacles presented by the terrain and creek bed, other hurdles set in place to challenge even the best athletes included a 10-foot tire wall climb, 16-foot tall weighted pulleys with varying weights up to 100 pounds, crazy monkey bars and a backward slide tube, which became the one hindrance every participant raved about. Speir added, “Before receiving their medals for completing the course, each mudder had to conquer the mud pit and giant mud mound.”

Funds generated from the event went to LAMA, which helps maintain and enhance the organizations’ ability to support Madison Academy facilities, faculty and staff and students. The race featured 65 volunteers.

One of the special facets of the event is the sense of community as it was not uncommon to see racers help other struggling participants through the challenging obstacles.

“Everyone cheers for and encourages those around them and that’s the spirit that Madison Academy embodies,” said Speir. “We also know safety is paramount to us as we had HEMSI on hand to make sure our participants were well cared for. Thankfully, we didn’t have use their expert services.”

The 2018 event included a Lil Muddy 1K race for 45 youngsters, ages 5-11, who also braved the abraded conditions.

Four hundred dollars in door prizes donated by local businesses were given away at the completion of the event. Teams were also part of the competitors including those of family members, Madison Academy teachers and several large corporate teams from a bevy of companies.