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.

RUNAMUCK, Harriman State Park NY, 6/25/11

This was what I like to call a "middle of the pack" mud run race- sort of a median of the extremes in terms of intensity and size, two key factors that give these events their "feel."  A great place to hold the event being at a well-known state park with easy access for NYC and the tri-state area.  Plenty of space to put on a good show, which explains why they are not the only race happening in Harriman this summer. 

1. COURSE- I knew going in to it that this wasn't a hardcore style race set up to make you bleed or anything- a little bit more of a family and fun (many in costume) race.  But I would say it was harder than I had expected, mainly because of the environment and trails it took you through over the 3 miles.  Definitely the two best parts were near the end of the course, with a long waist-high lake walk/swim (took easily 3-4 minutes to get across) and a legitimately tough mud pit right before the finish that had me wondering if there could be dinosaur bones at the bottom with how thick and deep it was.  Luckily I didn't lose my shoes but I'm sure there are many sneaker fossils which will be found after the next ice age.  GRADE = B

2. FESTIVAL-  Very well done.  Located at the area which was both start and finish lines, so people watch see both happening.  DJ played good race tunes to get you pumped for your run, and keep the party going after you're done.  Nice food offerings for sale, which included my $6 grilled chicken garden salad (yeah paleo!) and other items besides the usual hamburger or hot dog and bbq stuff.  Picnic tables set up at many spots to have your lunch and beer while you watch the race, so kudos for a nicely arranged after party.  GRADE = A

3. SWAG-  Decent t-shirts (cotton) with cool logo and interesting colors like charcoal (did we have a choice or just given whichever- don't know).  Medals only given to top 3 males and females of each race heat, so maybe could have offered more chances to win things for the competitive types.  No one free beer included- cost them a letter grade, since most races will do that. GRADE = B


OVERALL GRADE = B