GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- More than 350 participants competed in one of the Army's most grueling races held annually here.
The third annual Grafenwoehr Rugged Terrain Obstacle Run took place April 11, 2015, grinding participants through 15 kilometers and 20 obstacles.
The Rugged Terrain Run, which is similar to the Tough Mudder and Spartan Race, has become a staple in the Bavaria military community, as well as among other military communities throughout Germany.
"I believe people like to get dirty and have fun while they compete, and this is why I believe the Rugged Terrain Run is popular," said Serge Kearse, the sports and fitness chief for USAG Bavaria's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
Obstacles like the mud crawl, the tire flip and the monkey bars tested competitors' strength, endurance and mental toughness.
"I always wanted to participate in something like this but I never had the opportunity," said Sgt. Roberto Rios, a human resources sergeant. "When all my co-workers told me they were doing the race, I decided to join them."
Rios said his goal was to complete the run in less than an hour. He finished in one hour and 59 minutes.
"It was definitely a challenge and I feel broke," said Rios after completing the course. "But I will definitely participate next year so I can beat my time."
Family & MWR and the Joint Multinational Training Command continue a partnership begun in 2013 developing the Rugged Terrain Run to promote health and fitness, and encourage units to take advantage of the newly built training course.
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