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With several inches of snow on the ground and temperatures hovering around freezing, it’s hard for some to imagine that anyone would be outside for longer than necessary this weekend.
Yet more than 400 people are registered to take part in the annual Man Vs. Mountain 5K obstacle race on Saturday, Feb. 2. And with registration re-opening the day of the race, who knows how many more brave souls could compete.
Man Vs. Mountain is an obstacle-laden 5K race, taking competitors through winding trails along the Chippewa River as they manage their way around obstacles and over walls, including a 16 ft. wall located at the end of the course.
The city’s Parks and Recreation department organizes the annual event, which has grown increasingly popular over the years. Approximately 150 people participated in the inaugural 2013 race. More than 400 have already registered for this year's event.
Steve Hofer is Recreation Coordinator for the City of Mt. Pleasant. He says that making the course accessible to as many people as possible is one of the department’s goals. There are different levels of competition: Standard and Competitive. There is also the Kid Vs. Crag event, which is available to children aged 4 to 9 years old.
"This brings people into the community. Mt. Pleasant has a lot to offer, both to residents and visitors," Hofer says.
"We get to show off different aspects of the community with just one event."
There are multiple prizes for finishing the event, and vary depending on which level one is registered. Prizes include Man Vs. Mountain long-sleeve shirts, finisher medals, race day photos, and more. Cash prizes for the top three finishes start at $200.
Man Vs. Mountain begins at City Hall and ends at Mountain Town Station in Mt. Pleasant.
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