Get Down and Dirty with the Zelie Mud Challenge

Most mud races are intense, physical events that take training and perseverance to finish. The inaugural Zelie Mud Challenge goes against the curve, offering a day of family fun for ages three up.

The race is on Sept. 28 at 11:00 a.m. in the Zelienople Community Park parking lot.

"We are really looking forward to getting the families out with the younger kids because the Tough Mudder and those type of things, you have to be 18 and older, and they're really advanced," said  Alecia Flood, Zelienople Parks and Rec Director and Park Manager.

"All kids like to get muddy, so we wanted to make it a family event, where mom and dad could come with their little ones in their play clothes, have fun, have a little exercise and have a little family time."

To keep things easier, the race includes two different courses: a beginner 1.5 mile loop and a more advanced three mile loop. Those who want to do the three mile loop must repeat the course twice.

For added adventure, runners must tackle 15 different obstacles.

Obstacles include a muddy pit, tires, army crawling under a cargo net, baby pools filled with mud, hay bales to climb, logs to jump over, dirt mounds to climb up and down, trees to weave in and out of, and crossing a stream.

Flood is even considering have participants sit in a tub of sawdust after getting all muddy so that it sticks to them.

"We're utilizing the land of the park," Flood said. "We're doing nature things that we don't have to mess with which are already there."

After runners cross the finish line, they will be rewarded with food, drinks, hot showers, and loads of prizes donated by community businesses.

Proceeds raised by the event benefit Friends of the Park, a nonprofit group that preserves and enhances the Zelienople Community Park. Money may be used to purchase new equipment or things that are needed for the pool throughout the season.

Cost of the race is $30 for singles, $75 for a family of three, $90 for a family of four and $110 for a family of five. Those interested in registering may do so by printing out the form and mailing it in or by registering online. The first 200 registered will get a race T-shirt.

Those wishing to volunteer their time or donate food or prizes are asked to call 724-452-0231 or send an email to zelienoplecommunitypark@gmail.com.

Would you ever want to do a mud challenge? Tell us why or why not in the comment section below.