After each mud run or obstacle race I compete in, you'll get my review and grades for each event to help you decide which ones you might want to sign up for. The following categories will be discussed:

1. COURSE- the design, venue, and setup of the race itself- how creative/ adventurous/ difficult the obstacles were, and obviously... how was the MUD?!?

2. FESTIVAL- all the fun beyond the actual race- the social atmosphere which usually includes food, beer garden, dj/ music/ concert, contests, vendors, and more during the after-party

3. SWAG- the included goodie bag and prizes up for grabs- all the "free" stuff that comes with price of entry and the quality of awards, shirts, and other giveaways

Feel free to use the search box to read up on any past topics you might be looking for.

MUDDY BUDDY, Harriman State Park NY, 7/24/11

The second of two mud events at Harriman State Park, but maybe the most unique race of the season for me for two reasons:  it was the only partnered race I entered and is the only "multi-sport" mud race I know of.  MB is a two-person, 5/6 stage interval'ed running/biking race (with obstacles at transition zones), a concept much more challenging than you might expect.

1. COURSE- This was the first time ever that Muddy Buddy's 10k (6 mile) race was a two-lap course rather than one straight start to finish.  This actually allowed each partner to experience equally the entire course one time on a bike and another while running, taking away any advantage for those that trained more with either discipline.  It was a relatively fast and flat layout, with only a few uphill trail climbs and a few sections with sandy/gravel downhills, both tougher to do with the bike.  Obstacles at (approximately) each mile were quick and simple- several inflatables and basic climb/crawl- and were also the spots for transitioning from run/bike/run/bike/etc.  GRADE = B

2. FESTIVAL- A lot of sponsors and vendors in the festival area made a great hang out spot at the finish line, where the beer garden was also located.  Other drink and snack samples were available, but no bbq or hot food for sale, which cost them some points.  Still the best part of the day, besides the race itself, was the downpour thunderstorm after awards and nearing the close of things, which made a fun muddy (and already wet) end to a great day.  GRADE = B

3. SWAG- Came home with a goodie bag full of stuff- several shirts from the race or vendors, a cool Muddy Buddy towel from Columbia (their main sponsor), a sweet car bumper sticker, and easily the BEST finisher medal (as well as an awesome first place medal we won!) that hangs on my wall.  Also have to mention that this is the only race offering two free beers after the event- most just give one.  Well done!  GRADE = A


OVERALL GRADE = B