On a last minute decision, I decided to run the Gauntlet Games at Heaton Park, in Manchester. The Gauntlet Games has various locations across the UK and makes great use of inflatable obstacles to make an Obstacle Race that is fun and achievable for those that are looking for their fitness challenge.
What was good?
- Obstacles – I felt for the participants it was aiming at, the obstacles were spot on. Some large inflatables to climb over, under and through. Some fun was added into the mix with water slide, space hopper race and sack race (killer on the calves and cardio). Walls, a tyre carry and sternum checkers were also en route for the slightly more challenging obstacles.
- Mixed terrain – Some obstacle races aimed at new particpants are sometimes a little sanitised. Gauntlet Games used the varied terrain of Heaton Park very well. Use of the forest, dirty trail, the streams as well as the vast expanse of green open spaces made for an interesting run between obstacles. Whilst there isnt a lot of elevation across Heaton Park, Gauntlet Games still used as much as it could across the distances
- Two distances – A 5km ideal for those starting out and a 10km for those wanting to push a bit further. The 10km course wasn’t quite 2 of the same loops, but participants did take on a number of the obstacles again. I didn’t see this as an issue, it was a lot of fun taking on the water slide twice.
- Gladiator Marshals – at times, the marshals were dressed up along with a Gladiator style pugel stick / American football tackle bag which added to the fun. Shame there wasn’t a few more marshals tackling people, especially at the last “gauntlet”.
- Medal – Awesome looking medal and T-shirt!
Verdict
The Gauntlet Games is a step-up from some of the smaller “local” Obstacle races and the Manchester one joins a growing stable of North West races including Born Survivor, Urban Revolution, Total Warrior, Muddy Maniacs, Rough Runner and Tough Mudder.
The use of inflatable obstacles brings the fun, whilst the “gladiator” marshals add the difference from any other obstacle race. This race is ideal for first timers or those that are looking for a fun day without the pressure of “racing”.
Village was compact, but music, MC and food outlets were enough to keep people going. Car Parking was £3 which is the standard Heaton Park charge for 3 hours +
The “Early Bird” price of £35 is about right, whilst I personally wouldn’t be paying the “last minute” price of £50. Price includes medal and t shirt whilst photos are an additional price.
Visit the Gauntlet Games website – http://thegauntletgames.co.uk/
