The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

This Saturday, organisers of the first Mud Run 242 will be encouraging Bahamians to unleash their inner warriors and to “face to mud”.

It all take place at the Clifton Heritage Park, which will be transformed into a muddy fun-packed 20 plus obstacle course.

Registration begins at 8am and the official race starts at 9am. Part proceeds from the event will go towards the Children’s Emergency Hostel.

Bahamian mud warriors will face obstacles that require not only getting muddy, but also balance and coordination, upper body strength, flexibility, willingness and determination to get through three perfectly designed phases.

Participants will also have photo opportunities to mark their accomplishments and walk away with goodie bags as tokens of Mud Run 242’s appreciation for taking on the challenge.

For Mud Run 242 proprietor Chrystal Knowles, the aim of the event is to ensure that persons have fun, enjoy the healthy experience and be entertained, all at the same time.

“My goal for the Bahamian mud warriors is to laugh with their family and friends, get dirty of course, and realise that fitness isn’t always intense or repetitive. You can actually enjoy working out through various outlets, and it’s OK if you aren’t able to complete all the challenges, just being present and participating is a step in the right direction towards health and wellness,” she said.

In addition to having fun while testing their physical prowess, Ms Knowles said participants will have the opportunity to socialise and make friends, as some of the obstacles require teamwork.

“We encourage all participants to help each along the route. Additionally, it’s a motivator with a subliminal message. You will always have obstacles in life, but with drive and effort it’s amazing what we can accomplish if we just test ourselves,” she said.

It was while on vacation in Florida a few years ago that Ms Knowles first decided to test herself and take part in a Mud Run obstacle course abroad.

“Let me start by saying I am not fit. Keeping this in mind, I still decided to experience it. It was such an awesome experience, although I wasn’t able to keep up with the professionals or even complete all of the obstacles. My friend and I took on the challenge head-on and at the end of it we wore our sunburn, cuts and bruises with muddy socks and shoes as badges of honour. The fun and adrenaline rush I experienced at that event moulded my vision of Mud Run 242 and what I’ve prepared for my Bahamian mud warriors,” she said.

Ms Wilson said she is looking forward to hosting the event on an annual basis. A special pre-Halloween Mud Run will be held on October 23.

“It’s going to be different. Bahamian mud warriors will be able to experience new obstacles and possibly a new route while they’re dressed in their favourite costumes with Halloween surprises for them around every bend,”said Ms Wilson.

All interested persons are asked to follow “MudRun 242” on social media platforms to stay informed of upcoming activities and events, or visit www.Mudrun242.com.