Last week, firefighters from across the region gathered in Exton to test their abilities for day one of the Northeast Regional Classic, writes Kenny Cooper for the WHYY.
Spectators filled a vacant Sam’s Club parking lot to witness what organizers and participants dubbed the toughest two minutes in sports.
“It’s not terrible,” said Announcer Huan DeRiggs. “You’ll come close to death — but you won’t die.”
While tackling increasingly harder challenges, competitors have to wear upwards of 45 pounds of equipment in hot July weather.
One of the Participants, Joey Horton, decided to return to give the obstacle course one more try after having last competed in 2008. The 61-year-old suffered injuries that derailed his fun. Before that, he would complete the course in one minute and 40 seconds. His goal this time was to simply complete the course, which he achieved in three minutes and 30 seconds.
“I’ve been gone for 16 years and walked back on the course today, and the family recognized me after 16 years,” said Horton. “Men and women came over and hugged me … even gave me kisses on my cheek. It’s like a family out here.”
Read more about the event in the WHYY.
