A Spartan race is unlike any other race. The caliber of this race is much higher than many other mud run style obstacle courses. The course is high-quality, challenging, intimidating and even sometimes scary. The point of such a course is to truly challenge yourself to rise above and beyond what you thought you were capable of completing.

That being said, don't worry! Spartans are the most supportive, encouraging, and helpful participants. NO one is left behind, and complete strangers will help you to complete even the most challenging of obstacles.

Part of the Spartan race is not knowing what obstacles you will race until the morning of. This can make it difficult to prepare, but the Spartan website provides plenty of training tips and plans to help you prepare. If you are unable to complete an obstacle, you are required to complete 30 burpees (not as easy as they sound).

A Spartan Sprint is set to be anywhere from 3-5 miles, and this years race totaled 5 miles. One area to improve on would be the amount/location of water stations. The first water station seemed to take forever to reach and the day was unseasonably warm as well. I would highly recommend bringing your own water to hold you from station to station.

Another recommendation is to wear/carry a good pair of gloves. Many of the obstacles require hand grip strength, and the gloves really make a difference. Also, wear an old pair of well-draining shoes. Old, muddy shoes can be donated to charity after the race.

Once you cross the finish line fire jump, you get a CLIF bar, banana and water. Since the race is not sponsored, but solely run by Spartan, there are no other free vendors on site. You should also note that spectators are required to pay 20-25 dollars to watch, and most of the course is not visable from the spectator area. Parking is also 10 dollars per vehicle, so carpool when possible!

The medal is a heavy, high-quality round medal. With it you also receive a triangle medal chunk. When you complete the 2 longer distances, you can collect the three chunks to create a Trifecta medal. Spartan races are highly addictive, and I know I am hooked!