Raiders Grueling Tough Mudder Challenge

The Canberra Raiders mixed up their pre-season training schedule this week to take on the Tough Mudder Challenge in the Kangaroo Valley.

The Raiders players swapped the footy field for the mud and military-style obstacles by undertaking a special two-day Tough Mudder training session which has left the squad better prepared to face any possible adversity in 2013.

Emerging star Josh Papalii described the gruelling two day trip as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done” and Jarrad Kennedy, one of the fittest members of the playing group, concurred adding that “I’ve been pleased with how I’ve been going in the fitness drills during pre-season but that was definitely one the hardest things I’ve ever gone through.”

“It tested us all physically and mentally but it’s resulted in bringing us all together more; we were a tight group before the camp but we’re definitely much tighter now.”

“Every player got through the challenges and drills and it’s given us all the confidence to get through any testing times that we will face next season.”

Lee Campbell, Tough Mudder’s Australian ambassador and military trainer, said that the boot camp was designed to be mentally and physically punishing, while also encouraging the players to work together as a team to complete the obstacles.

“Tough Mudder is all about teamwork, so the focus of this training session was about getting the boys to work together through some really challenging obstacles. They completed an enduring a 21km run, crossed rivers and carried logs, amongst other challenges,” Campbell said.

The Tough Mudder endurance challenge consists of a unique, approximately 20km trail run over rugged terrain, featuring steep inclines, water hazards and 18 to 25 military-style obstacles testing one’s toughness, fitness, strength, stamina, mental grit and teamwork.

Throughout the 20km challenge there are also 3m-high walls, pits of mud, ice baths and even fields of live wires, which shock participants with 10,000 volts of electricity.

Every member of the playing group looked considerably weary after getting off the bus on Friday afternoon and will no doubt rest well all weekend.

“When training returns on Monday I’m sure you will see a more mentally and physically tougher playing group,” said Football Manager John Bonasera.

“Most of the players will be too tired to admit it now but the camp was a really rewarding experience and has been a great tool for steeling the squad’s resolve and bringing everyone together.”