One year ago, I completed the Spartan Sprint. It taught me A LOT. I learned that I was capable of so much more than I thought but it also made me realize that I could be that much stronger. Ever since, I increased my strength training and focused on upper body and back strength. I can honestly say that the work I put in through the year allowed me to enjoy this year’s course, but it could have also been the company.

This year, the Honey Badger team… WAIT… Please tell me you know what a honey badger is! If you don’t, please watch the YouTube video…

So anyway, our team grew from last year and included members of my gym fam: Amanda, Gabe, Becky and Steve. It was their first obstacle run so they started out somewhat nervous but they kicked serious butt.

As a second timer, I noticed some changes this year. So what was different?

1. The course route was reversed.
2. The obstacles were easier (or I got stronger?)
3. The obstacles were not much different from last year, just reversed. The monkey bars, sandbag carry, various walls, rope climb, were all still there. However, the tire flip was now a tire pull, but it was cake.

4. It was crowded. The attendance appears to have grown, which is no surprise given the popularity of these events.

5. This year, I also wore knee socks to prevent poison ivy and gloves, which saved me during the rope climb.
6. The barbed wire route was shorter. For me, this meant less bruises and scrapes!

I liked my barbed wire picture from last year much better.

So how did I do? Like I said, I’m definitely stronger than I was last year so I was not sore, except for my calves (those trail climbs!) However, I didn’t manage to complete the rope climb. I was really really really bummed/pissed. Ask Amanda, as I got quite feisty with her after slipping down the rope. I made it to the last knot at the top but just couldn’t pull myself up. I spoke to my Dad when I got home because it irritated me so much. I realized at that moment, my technique was so wrong! I was relying on the knots to place my feet rather than wrapping my ankles around the rope. Doh!

Anyway, our team stuck together through the course, minus Justin and Shannon, because they’re honey badgers! I’m glad we did because it made the race much more fun and Gabe’s assistance over the walls was greatly appreciated.

We finished over 2 hours again, while Justin and Shannon came in around 1 hour and 16 minutes! Like I said, honey badgers.

Photos were published much quicker this year, which is always exciting! Race photos in general are somewhat ridiculous. You rarely look good in them. I know Christina at The Athletarian would agree.

The fire was HOT, as you can judge by the look on my face. I feel as though it was a larger jump than last year too.

I had to share these gems. Our encounters with the gladiators at the very end of the course. Just after them is the desired “Finish Line.”

Our techniques were all quite different, but effective.

I couldn’t have asked for a better group of friends to be with! They made the race that much more fun!

I’ll likely do it again next year, just to get back at that rope!

Have you completed the Spartan or a similar obstacle run?

Are you a rope climber?

Maria

P.S. – I did spot Ashley of Running Bun during the race, but didn’t get a chance to say HI. She provided a great recap the other day, so make sure you check it out.

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