Spartan Race once again brought back their Spartan Sprint held at the Heritage Ranch in Red Deer, Alberta but this time on July 22, 2017, instead of September as years prior.

Holding the race in July proved to be a great choice as the weather was absolutely beautiful the morning of the race and there seemed to be quite the turnout!

The course was completely changed from years previous and I really enjoyed it. The starting line was held in a wide open area, which allowed racers to jostle for position ahead of the single track trail that was ahead. The trail, which opened up to large fields multiple times throughout the race for obstacles, was amazing as it wound you deep through the forest of Heritage Ranch. Spartan also utilized short yet steep, ascents here and there making for a much more interesting run through the trees.

The obstacles were really enjoyable and the Platinum Rig also made its debut in Alberta, (as well as Olympus) which elated many racers as we all finally got to stare it down during a race. Spartan does a great job of utilizing the venue and having a swim across the river as one of the obstacles on a beautiful summers morning was awesome!

Spartan, having moved their start and finish line also moved their festival area to a much wider and open space and overall, I thought this was much better than years prior. More people were able to check out the vendors, cheer people on through some obstacles, (the Platinum Rig, A-frame, Rolling Mud, Spear throw, Barbed wire crawl as well as the fire jump were all viewable for spectators and within a small area!) which felt great as an athlete, and just hang out in general.

Overall, if you are looking to do your first Spartan race or your 100th Spartan Race, the Red Deer venue is a wonderful choice as it has it all and is also really friendly for spectators. Aroo!