Yes you read that right.
After saying NEVER AGAIN after my last terrifying obstacle race (which you can read about here) I have done a complete U turn and now have a place for a SPARTAN RACE happening in just 2 and a bit weeks time.
Why?
Well, because there is one taking place right on my doorstep (dummy), and it would be rude not too. Plus my training has been getting a bit boring recently, so if anything is likely to give me a rocket up my backside then it is this.
On the website it says,
We Spartans love the Olympics (as you might expect), and we are delighted to announce the first ever Spartan Sprint to take place at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park! (Which is literally 3 minutes away from my bed) What better place to kick start the 2016 season, than racing at the site of the 2012 Olympic Games?
EXACTLY
They also say of the sprint which I am signed up for that
The Reebok Spartan Sprint: This is our shortest distance. It is perfect for athletes of all levels; from Spartan first timers to seasoned racers. The 3-5 Mile Sprint may be our shortest distance but it packs more than 20 Signature Spartan Obstacles. If you think you can’t do it, you’re wrong. Get to the starting line and show yourself what you are capable of.
So I along with a lovely lady called Kerrie who is currently doing my 5 weeks to 5K programme (And who I first met via an online business coaching programme called Lucky Bitch go figure!!!)
We will be testing this “suitable for all levels of athlete” premise, to see if you really can do these kind of events if you are A) overweight and B) a little lacking on the fitness front.
Don’t get me wrong I will be training, but I am limited to how much I can realistically do in the remaining 2 and a bit weeks. Luckily I have been working on my base fitness since coming back from a nasty chest infection earlier this year, with 3 runs a week, daily yoga and some hardcore sessions in the pool.
I have the small matter of a half marathon next weekend to get out of the way first so I am feeling positive….OK and a bit nervous of course.
So lets get a few things straight before you consider joining me on the 9th April. What exactly is a Spartan Race?
Born in the gritty green mountains of Vermont by Joe DeSena, world-class adventure racer, Spartan is a frame of mind.
Gritty. Check
Resilient. Check
Passionate. Check
Spartans aren’t soft (Hmmmm are we talking belly soft or determination soft?).
Spartans overcome obstacles. (Daily…I have a 3 year old right)
And yes, Spartans burpee. (oh shit they said the B word)
Reebok Spartan Race is innovating obstacle racing on a global scale. With more than 130 races around the world annually – offering three core races each escalating in distance, obstacle count and challenge level. The Spartan Sprint (3+ miles/20+ obstacles), the Spartan Super (8+ miles/ 25+ obstacles) and Spartan Beast (12+ miles/ 30+ obstacles). Courses are riddled with signature obstacles: mud, barbed wire, walls, rope and fire. Challenge yourself to complete all three and become part of the TRIFECTA tribe.
They also offer a kids race (½ – 1 mile), Special Spartans (for racers with intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities), and for those who looking to push themselves even further, the Hurricane Heat (bootcamp-style challenge) and the Ultra Beast (26+ miles, 60+ obstacles). Ok, Ok we get the picture.
So there you have it, I’m signed up to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park midday one, and its going to happen one way or another. If you fancy joining me and seeing just how tough these things are sign up here, and keep an eye out on social media for updates on my training…I see burpees, mountain climbers, and kettlebells on the horizon.
And just to give you some extra motivation to face your fears and push yourself to your limites, I will leave you with the Spartan Code
WORDS TO LIVE BY:
Spartans push their minds and bodies to their limits.
Spartans master their emotions.
Spartans learn continuously.
Spartans give generously.
Spartans lead.
Spartans stand up for their beliefs, no matter the cost.
Spartans know their flaws as well as their strengths.
Spartans prove themselves through actions, not words.
Spartans live every day as if it were their last.
Oh….and one more thing, did I mention that finishers receive a free beer upon completion of the event? If that’s not a good enough reason to sign up, I don’t know what is….although I could just buy a beer, but wheres the fun in that?