Tough Tribes go to war
MORE than 500 runners and obstacle race enthusiasts – some from far away as Brighton – took part in the first-ever Tough Tribe event in Greater Manchester.
A total of 570 athletes packed Stockport Sports Village (SSV) for Tough Tribe, a mixed-terrain obstacle race with 5k and 10k versions, for individuals and teams (tribes).
All abilities, from elite athletes to beginners – aged 16 and over – braved the race.
The course, designed to challenge everyone, was run over open ground, woodland and rivers and featured a wide range of obstacles. Among these was a brand new Tough Tribe obstacle, the chicken dipper, which involved diving into paint powder, then gunge, flour and feathers for a colourful, messy finish.
The event, set to be an annual fixture in Stockport, was the brainchild of not-for-profit social enterprise Life Leisure.
First man past the post was Russell Parrington from Team Ensure, with Darren Leather and Dave Seviour, both of Team Zeus, second and third.
First woman across the line was Dominique Searle from the Mudstacle Machines, with Michelle Kehoe of Solo Mudders second and Claire Jones third.
Vince James, captain of Team Wrongen, was not placed but travelled all the way from Brighton to test himself against the industry’s newest event.
Race director Andy Brooks said: “The day couldn’t have gone any better, thanks to the spirit of the participants and our amazing team of volunteers. The Tough Tribe team, Zeus boys and Life Leisure staff were unbelievable. All the blood, sweat and tears paid off in making this inaugural event amazing.
“I would like to give a special thank you to everyone for taking part and for their fantastic feedback.”