Review: Strong Viking Mud Edition Fürstenau (42 KM – Iron)

We would like to start this review by offering our deepest respects to the fallen Iron Viking during this run. Our condolences go out to his family and friends- may you rest in Valhalla forever, fellow Viking. The fellow Vikings who immediately started resuscitation efforts are heroes.

Run Abstract (9th of March 2019)

Fürsten Forest is one of the most beautiful locations I have ever seen. Not only was it beautiful for running, but there were facilities for all kinds of awesome stuff such as paintball, go-carting, racing, and much more. Though on March 9th, the location became home to something much cooler: the Strong Viking Mud Edition.

The edition was also home to the third race of the OCR series, which was quite a sight.

Before the Run

The start before the run had me really tensed up. This was Peter’s second Iron Viking, but this was my first marathon ever. Beforehand, the longest distance I had done was during the Gladiator Run, totaling to 26 kilometers. We had been training for this moment for a long time, and we were absolutely ready to start this crazy adventure.

Everything you’d expect was available in terms of facilities. Parking (paid), food, merch, and a great atmosphere.

During the Run

A grim weather forecast immediately set the tone of that day’s run. It was okayish at the start, but soon the sun started hiding behind the clouds, wind started to pick up, and rain started to fall horizontally.

The obstacles featured in this run were extremely fun but also wrecking energy-wise. Notable obstacles were definitely Björn Ironside and Thor’s Odyssey, where you had to carry heavy chains (20KG?) and heavier (25KG?) sand bags respectively. Thor’s Odyssey had an added difficulty with vertical meters, lots of mud, and rain. When we attempted the obstacle the weather got really ugly, making us lose time getting up and down those hellish hills. Lots of runners didn’t even attempt this obstacle, seeing the weather conditions- an unfortunate sight.

Weather conditions caused grip obstacles such as the Wheel of Steel to be closed. We were lucky enough to be able to attempt (and pass) every obstacle as intended, though the rain made it extra difficult.

Most mud pools were relatively avoidable during the run, which helped us save energy. Lots of Irons maintained the same strategy and walked on the sides of mud pools where possible. This move was legal, considering that it was within the bounds of the track. Most (if not all) mud pools were pretty undeep, only getting your legs wet.

Supply points were also well-positioned after most heavy parts and offered the golden standard Strong Viking supplies: water, energy drinks, and Herbalife food!

After the Run

The end of the run was extremely emotional for me. I had just finished one of the toughest things I had ever attempted, but finishing never felt so good.

 

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