A fitness-focused lifestyle, whether through gym visits or professional training, often leads individuals to seek challenges that test their mental and physical limits.
One activity that epitomises human strength, endurance, and spirit is the globally franchised Spartan brand.
Founded by former military officer Joe De Sena, the Spartan challenge is a long-distance obstacle course racing discipline that has gained global popularity.
While originating in the United States, it has become popular in the United Kingdom, several European countries, Asia and the Middle East, regularly attracting large crowds from neighbouring nations to its regional circuits.
In Southeast Asia – Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore have been hosting Spartan events, capitalising on venues that appeal to followers of varying abilities.
Regarded as a major global fitness event, Spartan races have attracted the attention of Bruneians, showcasing the blend of skill and talent among locals participating in the sport.
Although Spartan racing differs from conventional sports, Bruneians have made a notable impact, with several participants achieving podium finishes in recent competitions.
Moreover, the number of local participants in Spartan races is increasing, driven by encouragement from gym-goers and a gradual elimination of fears associated with the sport’s challenges.
Each Spartan runner must conquer a series of obstacles, including monkey bars, multi rigs, Hercules Hoist, spear throw, sandbag carry, Z wall and Atlas carry, while covering a specified distance based on the race type.
Failure to complete an obstacle incurs a penalty, often requiring the runner to cover an extended route for a specified distance, a change from previous regulations that mandated burpees as a penalty.
The races are divided into Sprint (5km), Stadion (5km specially held at the stadium and its surroundings), Super (10km) and Beast (21km).
A participant will be awarded a special Trifecta medal if they complete the Sprint, Super and Beast events in a single weekend with further bonuses if they double or triple their Trifecta collection.
The Spartan experience, despite the pain and discomfort of each obstacle, fills every participant with joy and satisfaction, often leaving them in an emotional state unlike any other.
After numerous training sessions and hard work, the journey to the event’s hosting city, surrounded by equally enthused teammates who share the same passion, marks the sudden realisation that the event is becoming a reality.
The night before the race, participants engage in carb-loading, consuming various food to ensure they have enough energy for the long race ahead.
It’s crucial for them to be well-rested and get enough sleep to prepare for the challenges, which may include fatigue and exhaustion.
Upon arrival, the audible speakers and a mass of congregants readying in their own distinctive ways will greet the participant.
Before heading to the start line, participants must visit the registration booth to collect their bib, usually in the form of a headband, and a timing chip wristband.
They can also check in their bags, keeping essentials like energy gels.
The excitement builds as they approach the starting line, where an announcer motivates the crowd with inspiring words.
During the race, it’s common to experience pain, discomfort, or even cramps in various parts of the body.
Successfully ringing the bell after completing an obstacle brings a sense of unparalleled satisfaction, often motivating participants to push through and finish the race.
Should they fail to perform an obstacle, they will need to go through a penalty loop where they will run a certain distance before returning to the normal route.
Normally, a Spartan race will involve going through a hilly trail with high elevation that challenge the capabilities of a participant.
The long, straight stretches in the route can become a mental battle, as slowing down may affect performance quality.
Participants must manage their breathing and use appropriate techniques to conquer obstacles and avoid failure.
As they go through a range of emotions, the A-Frame obstacle appears at the final stretch before participants are officially declared Spartan finishers. – Fadhil Yunus
