Fort Gordon hosted its annual Marine Mud Challenge Saturday, Sept. 17.
About 700 people participated in the 4 and a half mile off-road course with more than 30 obstacles that involved climbing, crawling and getting through the mud.
The Marine Mud Challenge has been held since 2008 except for 2020 when COVID caused its cancellation. The event raises funds for Marines and Fort Gordon’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation program to support service members their families.
“This is primarily to benefit the Marines financially. This is their one and only fundraiser to support the Marine Corps Ball,” said Craig Larsen, the Fort Gordon Director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. “The true benefit for us is the effect on the community, and that is the benefit for MWR. Not everything we do has to make money, in fact most of the things we do that are open to the public do not make any money, It’s all about the effect on the community. The fact that we could partner with the Marines; this is a great thing for Fort Gordon.”
Larsen also said the event is a very tough race that challenges everyone no matter what your fitness level is.
“It’s a grueling race, 4 and a half miles, around 30 obstacles; they are no joke,” Larsen said.
Local runner Preston Hart won the event with a time just above 38 minutes.
“This is my third year running it, and I enjoy doing it and a great cause,” said Hart. “It’s a local event and our military supports us so I feel like we should support them.”
Chris Rickerson is a staff reporter covering Columbia County government and general assignment topics for The Augusta Press. Reach him at chris@theaugustapress.com.
