Just Ask Me Something (FAQs)

What are the obstacles like?
Obstacles are typical “boot camp” style – hay bale hurdles, a 6-foot wall (yes, we'll have people there to help if you struggle with it), over-under hurdles, crawl tunnels, balance beams, and low crawl obstacles. And don’t forget the mud pit!

Does everyone start at once?
We’ll start teams out in waves, based on category. We anticipate 6 waves total, around 5 minutes apart.

What do I need to bring?
One bike and two helmets. Wear clothes that you don't mind gettin' dirty. Leave your jewelry, watches, and other valuables at home. Bring clothes to change into afterward. We'll have showers available to rinse off.

What about the bikes?
Keep in mind that you are sharing a bike; you should use a bike with an adjustable seat post so that you are both able to ride it comfortably as well as have pedals you can both use. Clipless pedals are not recommended.

We do not require you to use a mountain bike. As the course is primarily dirt roads, a mountain bike is recommended. If you use a different kind of bike, you will want to ride the bike on trails first to make sure it’s trail capable. A sturdy BMX bike would work too. You absolutely do not want a road bike.

Many people elect to decorate their bike so that it’s unique from the bunch and easy to find. That might include wrapping the frame in pink tape, or having a small stuffed animal secured to the handlebars; just keep it safe for yourself and those around you.

Do we have to wear a helmet?
Absolutely, yes! Both teammates are required to wear a bike helmet throughout the entire race – even going through the mud pit.

What about costumes?
We highly encourage them! Matter of fact, we've got a prize for the team with the best costume. Winners will be announced during the mandatory pre-race meeting. For those participating, we’ll need you lined up at the Finish line archway at 7:45 for the parade of costumes.

Will you be timing this race?
Yes, you will wear an electronic timing chip. Your time will be recorded just prior to entering the mud pit. We do this for two reasons: first, timing chips don’t read as well covered in mud; and second, you won’t have to rush through the mud pit. You will still be required to run through the finish line after crawling through the pit, though it’s just a few hundred feet further.

The timing chips are ultimately disposable; however, we’ll have a recycling station where you can drop it off for re-programming and use at a future race.

Will there be awards presented?
Yes, immediately following the Mudpuppy Splash kid’s race, we will award medals to the top finishers in each division. However, everyone gets a dog tag for participating!

Will you provide a course map?
Yes – a course map will be posted a week before the event.

How hard is it?
The Mad Mud Run SpinPscyle is designed to be a fun and challenging event for people of all levels of fitness.

How much time do we get to finish?
You'll have 2 hours & 45 minutes to finish the 5 miles. Most teams finish between 45 minutes and an hour. You could go less than 2 miles per hour and still complete the course. For reference, a good brisk walk is usually about 3.5 mph.

How old do you have to be to participate?
The minimum age is 12. If you are under 18, we also require a Minor Waiver. Kids 6 to 11 years old can enjoy some mud-time with the Mudpuppy Splash mini-obstacle run.

What if I need to change a teammate?
Let us know as soon as possible…if it is at least 1 week before the event, fill out a Teammate Change and send it to: Sierra Adventure Sports, 3508 E. Cortez St, Phoenix, AZ 85028.

What if I can't make it?
Sorry, there will be no race refunds. If you cannot make it and would like to transfer your entry to another Sierra Adventure Sports event, send $20 with a event transfer form to: Sierra Adventure Sports, 3508 E. Cortez St, Phoenix, AZ 85028. Requests MUST be received a minimum of one week before race day.

What if it rains?
If it rains, you'll have even more fun! The event goes on rain or shine. The only exception is if the venue forced us to close due to extreme circumstances. In that case, the event will be moved to a later date and/or venue within 2009. We've put on many events in the rain and our participants consider those events some of their favorites. If rainy or windy conditions become unsafe, we will alter the course accordingly.