Tunnel through mud. Slither beneath barbed wire. Push through fatigue. Do you have what it takes for Spartan Trifecta Weekend?

A different breed of competition

A Spartan race encompasses a lot of territory. So, before delving into the nitty gritty, let’s pull back a little.

Put simply, Spartan competitions are obstacle courses held throughout America. They’re designed to wear you down but build you up. It’s like military training to a certain extent.

But as a civilian, you get to pick your punishment— and reward yourself afterwards. New to the sport? Choose the 3-5-mile Sprint. Already in prime fighting shape? Some Spartan races last 12 hours or more. Barbed wire crawls, fire jumps and submerged walls add to the experience, too. Failure to clear an obstacle results in penalty burpees.

No doubt about it, Spartan races aren’t easy. Far from it. But simply crossing the finish line— regardless of time or placement— is an accomplishment. It doesn’t matter if you’re dead last, either. Every finisher gets a medal. Even better, you’ll feel mentally tougher.

Trifecta Weekend

The next Spartan series makes its way to West Virginia! From Aug. 26-27, the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean will host three races: Beast, Super and Sprint. Kids ages 4-14 can compete in their own divisions, too. It’s an opportunity that attracts hundreds of athletes across the country.

The Summit Bechtel Reserve was chosen as the race location for its setting. The recreation center boasts more than 10,000 acres of mountain wilderness. It’s also the National Boy Scout Jamboree headquarters. You couldn’t ask for better terrain than that!

Now for the Spartan Trifecta Weekend:

August 25 It’s easy to feel intimidated before a race. If you’re overwhelmed or mystified, attend Friday Open House at the Summit from 4-6 p.m. You’ll meet fellow racers, Spartan coaches and professional athletes.

It’s also a great way to get the lay of the land. Try some obstacles and tour parts of the course. Spartan staff can answer your questions as well. Not ready to compete? The open house is for anybody interested in Spartan “culture.” You might be inspired enough to try a future race!

This event is free. The first 200 registrants get some Spartan swag, so go ahead— register online.

There’s also the Friday Athlete Dinner. Break the ice with other racers, get a glimpse of the course and fuel up on carbs at 5 p.m. Brisket, slow-cooked chicken breast, mac n’ cheese and sweet potato casserole are just some of the buffet entrees on offer. The event will also have a beer bar.

Tickets are $40 per adult and $20 for kids 13 or younger. Space is limited, so order them while they’re available online.

August 26 Break out those energy bars; you’ll need ‘em for the Beast. It’s the weekend’s toughest race with 30-35 obstacles over 12-14 miles. Physical stamina is a must. A healthy dose of tenacity helps, too. Heavy mud, rope climbs and Tyrolean traverses can challenge the body as well as the mind.

Is your kid a Spartan, too? Some youth races will take place on the 26th, too. Bring the family and cheer from the sidelines! Saturday’s youth competitions are as follows:

• a 2-mile race for 11-14-year-olds
• a 1-mile race for anybody 9-13 years old
• a half-mile race for kids 4-8 years old

Expect mud, dirt and a good time for everybody!

August 27 Sunday morning dawns with the Super. This race covers 8-10 miles and 24-29 obstacles. It’s a notch easier than the Beast, but only slightly.

The Sprint is another option. Try this one if you’re a brand-new Spartan; with 3-5 miles and 20-23 obstacles, it’s the “easiest” of the Trifecta.

Sunday also has the same kids races: the 2 miler, 1 miler and half-miler.

Spartan stash

It takes guts to show up, compete and finish a race. Personal victory aside, here’s what you’ll earn in exchange:

• a medal
• free finisher’s shirt
• free snacks: bananas, protein bar and beer
• free event photos by a professional photographer

Going for all three races? In addition to your finisher’s medal, you’ll also receive a medal for completing the Trifecta. Together, the medals create a special shape.

Kids also earn a shirt and medal.

Spectators get perks, too. Watch competitors slog through muck and battle obstacles, mere feet from the sidelines. You’ll also receive five dollars’ worth of Spartan bucks; these can go towards select merchandise. Other entertainment includes live music, vendors and raffles.

Tickets for spectators are $20 if you purchase them online before Friday, Aug. 25. Otherwise, pay $25 in cash on site. More information is available on the Spartan site.

Would you rather watch a Spartan race or compete in one? Share your opinions with us!