I wasn’t entirely sure what I was getting myself into with the Warrior Dash. I knew it was a 5K running race with challenging obstacles – but what I also saw were photos my friends had posted wearing warrior costumes, drinking beer, and eating a turkey leg with a shit eating grin that would make just about anyone envious. When it came time to register this year, I was on top of it – I wanted to be part of the fun!
I already exercise daily so I didn’t feel it was necessary to train for this event. I mountain bike on weekends, run and lift weights on weekdays – I figured I had this one in the bag. Instead, I focused on making sure I had a Princess Warrior costume. And then the right pair of running shoes – ones that can afford to get muddy.
The event was held in Hollister, California – a 1.5 hour drive south from my home. Since it was over Halloween weekend, we choose to race Saturday versus Sunday (thinking I could still make it out for a Halloween party). I was very excited, I was meeting and running with a couple of friends – both dressed in warrior costumes as well.
Warrior Dash customary beer and turkey leg
None of us had much to eat that morning so we opted for food and beer prior to running. Not necessarily the smartest idea and thankfully my run wasn’t affected (I ate a sausage and split my beer). A half hour later, we proceeded to make our way to the starting line and ran into another warrior along the way – photo op!
Warriors ready for battle!
The starting time slot we had originally signed up for was at 4pm. However, they were not strict – as long as you were wearing a race number you could run with whatever slot you wanted. We started our race at 2:30pm – they started a new race every half hour.
Starting line - pumped up and ready to run!
We were jammed packed at the starting line. I had positioned myself somewhere in the middle, which I later realized was a mistake. I am competitive by nature and should have started in the front. I was pushing and passing my way through the crowd. Sadly, I ended up ditching my friends.
The warrior is leading the pack
The first part of the race was a 1.5 mile run before you tackled the first obstacle – it was actually a warm day and I was parched. Thankfully, there was a water stand at the 1.5 mile mark and I quickly swallowed a couple cups of water.
The first obstacle was a balancing act
I did think it was quite funny that the first obstacle focused on balance – hard to do after a 1.5 mile sprint. I was thrilled by how quickly I finished this one – unaffected by the run.
Off to the next obstacle - a race is much more fun in costume!
I love anything that requires using your core - this one was too easy for me
I was surprised to see how many people struggled on this obstacle. I walked the rope with ease, I spend a lot of time working on my core.
Once you climb to the top of this, you had to slide down on your stomach
I wasn’t sure how sliding down 15 feet on my stomach was going to work but I did it – and quickly. I later heard someone sprained their ankle on this obstacle.
Another wall climb, it looked the same on the other side coming down
Hoping through tires and jumping on a car was rad!
More climbing - these were my favorite obstacles. This is where I shined
I loved this obstacle – free climbing up the wall. I actually cheered when I was finished, I couldn’t believe how quickly I scaled the wall.
My least favorite obstacle - I felt like I was in grade school
Hoping over fences and rolling under barb wire - badass!
The infamous fire jumping photo - I held my cape up for an even more dramtic pose
And lastly, the crawl through the mud pit
The last obstacle was the disgusting crawl through the mud pit. All I could think of was how not to get mud in my hair or mouth. I did not actually enjoy this – I was not at the spa.
Strong and muddy, hawt!
Once I pulled myself out of the mud pit (10lbs heavier), the race was finished! I was thrilled, I pushed myself and was very lucky to have Jason on the side lines running the entire time snapping photos. He is amazing – now that’s a supportive boyfriend!
I am sure you are all wondering if they offered a place to clean up? Well, clean up consisted of a fire truck’s hose shooting gallons to water in the air – it was another battle amongst the other runners to get somewhat clean. After several tries, I managed to get enough mud off to change.
Hosed off and reunited with Erica
For more info on the Warrior Dash, click here
Additional photos from Jason are available here
With a focus on fashion, beauty, and health in the context of urban living, Inga Beck started Ingalicious to share her passion in trying and testing items that enrich her daily life.
