Dirt, mud, and grime are all things many people try to stray from, especially if it means running and falling into all of it. However, seniors Tristan Rhodes, Blake Saucier, Garrett Rountree, and Christian Weatherly seem to have a different perspective and are not afraid of getting a little muddy.

On March 24, the boys hit the road and made their way to Houston to compete in the Spartan Race competition. Races are held all over the country and this one just so happened to be in close proximity to home. About 5,000 people from all over the country participated in the event.

“I have some friends that have ran Spartan races in the past and I decided I wanted to run one too to test my endurance and athletic ability,” Rountree said.

The course they competed in was over four miles long and had over 25 different obstacles, including: jumping over walls, hanging from obstacles, climbing ropes, going through ponds and mud holes, throwing spears, crawling under 100 yards of barbwire, carrying 80 pound buckets, and many more vigorous exercises.

“One of the hardest things about this competition is being able to have the mental strength to keep yourself going,” Saucier said.

Being prepared and ready for this competition doesn’t just happen over night. The guys put in the effort over a period of time by lifting weights to build their upper body strength and improving their running stamina, as well as throwing in a series of agility and cross-fit training into their workouts.

“I wanted to compete because I enjoy challenging myself and body,” Rhodes said. “Plus, the race looked fun.”

This was Saucier’s and Rountree’s first time competing in the race, although Rhodes’ has run a total of seven races. The boys raced and finished as a team.

“The hardest part was having enough grip strength to complete the obstacles when your hands are wet and muddy,” Rountree said. “The easiest part was being motivated to finish the race. Everyone around you running the race were very motivating and wouldn’t let anyone fall behind.”

Going into the race, the boys were very dedicated and kept a positive attitude towards doing their absolute best. Without focusing on the tiredness and pain, they kept moving forward and pushed themselves to the max.

“After competing, I learned to believe in myself and to never give up,” Saucier said.