As the announcer signaled for the race to begin, TWAI students immediately trudged through a pool of murky water followed by a very steep hill climb that appeared to last forever. Our students were organized into two teams: Team Gladiator (the boy's group) and Team Spirit (girls group).
The teams broke away from one another early on as they were determined to push one another beyond their limits while working to finish the challenging course with their fearless leaders. The obstacles were difficult but the terrain was by far the most strenuous aspect of the course. The one-mile, hill climb was slippery and steep. This challenge would have broken most people, but our teams prevailed through this great challenge. 
The obstacles consisted of the following: carrying a 30lb sandbag up a hill; the rope climb; the javelin throw; log carry/roll; wall climbs; ramp climb as well as the net climb; log hurdles and crawling under the barbwire. Perhaps the most difficult obstacle at the Spartan Race was crawling under the barbwire. The first set of barbwire was easily accomplished, but to climb over the hay bales only to find two more sets of barbwire was a bit devastating. After completing this arduous task, which absolutely wore the strength right out of your arms, the following challenge included the rope climb. Needless to say, there were not very many people who could climb the rope. For those participants who were unable to complete an obstacle such as the rope climb, they were required to complete thirty burpees before moving onto the next challenge.
After climbing the last wall, the finish line was in sight. Prior to crossing the finish line, all participants had to overcome one last obstacle – jumping over a fire! Both teams finished what they started and were exhilarated upon completing one of the most challenging courses in the world. Team Gladiator
