Teachers Compete in Tough Mudders

Myka Murphy

12 miles, 22 obstacles, and ankle deep mud. Three of our very own teachers persevered through the Tough Mudder. The tough mudder is a 16–20 klm obstacle course designed to test all-around strength, stamina, teamwork, and mental ability. Mrs. Etter, Mr. Woodrome, and Mr. Parks all worked hard alongside their family members to complete this tough physical challenge. “The Tough Mudder is not about who finishes first. In fact, there is no timer running. The idea is just to finish as a team and to complete the race,” states Mrs. Etter who ran the course with her husband, sister, older brother, younger brother, and her younger brother’s fiancé. “The atmosphere was fun and everyone helped everyone. No one put themselves first. I might consider running it again for that reason, but it would be hard doing it again because I would know what to expect. There was this one obstacle called the arctic enema where you are literally diving into ice water and you have to submerge yourself into it to get out on the other side. I’m not sure I can mentally put myself back into that position knowing what it is like, but it was a lot of fun.” Mr. Parks also ran this course with his son, “It was great bonding with my son. It was such a physical challenge that I am already training for next year’s race so that I will be more prepared. It was fun but I wasn’t so fond of the electric shock therapy, which is 10,000 volts that you must run through,” he states. “It is an incredible race that actually is for the wounded warriors’ project and lots of the money goes to fund them. So far, over $6,000,000has been raised, but that is a side of the race that many people do not know,” Mr. Woodrome, who ran with his nephew, states, “It was so exciting and anytime you challenge yourself and succeed it is like a pure adrenaline rush.” Many people run the Tough Mudder each year, but only the strongest push through until the end. So the next time you are talking to Mrs. Etter, Mr. Parks, or Mr. Woodrome, maybe you will see them in a different light. Perhaps you will see their dedication and determination.

(1st): Mrs. Woodrome swings from the monkey bars during the competition

(2nd): Mr. Woodrome and his nephew pose for a photo

(3rd): Mrs. Etter's and her husband Rob

(4th photo): Mrs. Etter's twin sister, Gina