IT is a gruelling test of mind and body that will bring even the toughest athletes to their knees on Phillip Island this weekend.
Thousands of hardy participants will brave icy water, muddy trenches, fire and even a maze of live electricity as part of the 20km Tough Mudder challenge, the Herald Sun reports.
It will be the first time the international course - designed by British Special Forces troops - has been staged in Victoria after surging popularity overseas.
Former Australian Special Forces soldier Trevor Cameron warned yesterday scores of competitors might not have what it took to complete the enormous physical challenge that had lured athletes from around Australia.
"It will be a test of physical strength and teamwork," Cameron said. "But some of it will really test you mentally.
"What it will come down to, really, is the distance.
"It's not the size of the dog in the fight but the fight inside the dog. As long as you have the heart to keep going you will make it."
Global event sponsor Under Armour, roped in Cameron, an Afghanistan and East Timor veteran, to provide participants with tips and advice.
"I think some people might not finish the course but if you have the heart and stick with your team you will make it through," he said.
"It's not impossible."
More than 15,000 will test their endurance at the course tomorrow with another 10,000 spectators likely to line the course that includes 27 obstacles.
Those who cross the finish line will be given a beer, orange headband and an after-party with complimentary mullet haircuts and permanent Tough Mudder tattoos.
Organisers expect to hand out about 37,500 bananas and about 21,000 cans of VB over the two-day event.
Sixty medical staff from St John Ambulance, Victorian Ambulance and Lifesavers Victoria will be on hand to treat injuries with a mini hospital on site.
Accommodation on the island is all but booked out and about 7000 cars are expected to descend on the Phillip Island Grand Prix track from tomorrow.
TOUGH MUDDER
20km run through obstacles
Designed by British Special Forces
About 80 per cent of participants are male, most in early 30s
Average finishing time is about 2 1/2 hours. About 20 per cent won't finish
OBSTACLES INCLUDE:
Leaping off a high platform into water
Running through 400 dangling wires pulsing with electric current
Running while carrying a log on your shoulder
Climbing high rope
Belly-crawling through mud and under barbed wire
Climbing curved wall
Crawling through a tunnel partially filled with water
Read more at the Herald Sun.
