Local runners, mudders and thrill-seekers from around the Peach State braved the summer heat in the dirtiest of ways Saturday, August 16 at the 2014 Rugged Maniac 5K Obstacle Race made its way to the Georgia International Horse Park
The event was designed for anyone who loves “fun, fitness and festivals” and was hosted by one of the country’s largest obstacle race companies. Thousands of participants tackled 25 unique and challenging obstacles, a Rugged Maniac press release said.

Runners jumped over fire, crawled through underground tunnels, rocketed down a 60-foot water slide and bounced over trampolines as they made their way in, over and through the five-kilometer layout.

Music, mechanical bulls, adult bounce houses, beer, food and exhibition booths were displayed for runners who completed the course and spectators who wanted to see their family and friends get down and dirty.

“As a kid growing up in North Carolina, we had ample opportunities to get outdoors and have fun,” said Rob Dickens, chief operating officer of Rugged Maniac. “From building tree houses in the woods near my house to surfing the local waves, being active in nature with friends was a big part of life.

“Rugged Maniac is an extension of that. It’s a way for adults to feel like kids again by playing in the mud with our friends, except now we don’t have to worry about our moms yelling at us when we get home.”

Rob and Rugged Maniac CEO Brad Scudder recently appeared on ABC’s show “Shark Tank” where they reeled in famed businessman and billionaire Mark Cuban, who invested $1.75 million in the company.

“I’m super excited to be part of the Rugged Events team.” Cuban said on the show. “I’m anticipating the explosion of experiential entertainment, and very few people execute this as well as Rob and Brad. I have every intention of helping them grow into a force in the industry.”