Finally back after a covid-induced hiatus, The Mudder 2022 is gearing up to welcome teams keen to navigate the various obstacle courses on the Stewart family’s Rangitīkei farm in Marton.
The idea for the annual event, which started in 2015, came from farm owner and course designer Andrew Stewart, who in 2013 came up with the concept of a one-of-a-kind mud run to take advantage of the unique terrain of their farm. The event also aims to highlight the benefits of exercise on your mental health, with the tagline ‘move your body, shift your mind’.
This landscape is naturally hilly and by creating a course that also took in some of the geographical features, such as swamps, dams and springs, he was able to create something that will offer a truly Kiwi experience for those looking to spend the day having fun in the mud on a working farm.
The obstacle course, which can be completed in distances of 3km, 5km and 8km, comprises some man-made obstacles, but the ones that truly challenge are the natural ones.
Favourites include ‘a slog through a bog’, which is sure to get everyone filthy and rolling in mud with laughter, and the Rubber Island, which will require you to summon your best jumping skills, while navigating water hazards on a spongy, floating island that moves with each step.
While it’s a family-friendly event, there are entry requirements to complete the obstacle course, which will surely test entrants of all fitness levels. Teams also require a minimum of four members. The event will be held on September 24.
Food and beverages will be on sale and the event runs from 8am-2pm, including a prize giving after all entrants have completed the course.
Ticket prices range from $10-$75.
Watch the video below to get an idea of what to expect:
