My children and I decided to run the Warrior Dash in Phoenix for a change of pace from the typical running event I enjoy. My son and daughter did no direct training although they are athletic. The race day event was on a bright and sunny day with great weather. Finding parking at the event was easy. Race management was well organized. My daughter didn't make the decision to actually join the race wither brother and me until we arrived at the event. The onsite registration was easy and quick. After purchasing her a pair of shorts to go with her new swag t-shirt she was ready to go.

Waves were organized in 15 minute intervals that could be selected during the initial registration. At the sound of the horn for our wave, we were off and running. The course began through the baseball park and around the outfield and back out through the park. After about 1 mile of running the stairs and through the park we arrived at several obstacles. Climbing walls, jumping logs, crawling under barriers....once we addressed the best method we moved through the challenges fairly quickly. The second mile brought some rocky terrain and it took care to keep your footing. This area slowed the pace and was at least in the shade to keep cool from the sun. The obstacles continued throughout the second mile with greater confidence and speed for the kids. The third and final mile was some the best fun we had on the run together. The obstacles were bigger, wet and very muddy. There was no avoiding the tall towers and the mud pit under barbed wire. Running was all but over as the challenge was no longer about the distance to run. It was about balance, focus and having a good time.
The course flat and level for most of the event as was not something that most serious runners might do for running sake. The park was nice and the weather perfect but not much in the way of scenery. Aid stations were well placed and frequent with plenty of water. The after event party was certainly geared toward the 21+ crowd and had a positive atmosphere. The medal was a sturdy Viking helmet and nice Warrior Dash shirt was included in the swag.
Overall I would recommend running one of these events at least once. It is definitely something to do with others, like your family or friends. Don't take it too seriously for competition in most cases, instead have fun with it. This was the first event my kids have ever entered with me associated with running and it certainly made memories for us.
Good luck on your next race!

PJ