School digs up dirt as mud-slinging starts

Arahoe School grounds now have a mud run and obstacle course. Photo / Supplied

Not many principals would give consent for diggers to tear up their school grounds for a fun run. Yet when the organising committee of parents at Arahoe School suggested staging a mud run and obstacle course within the school grounds, principal Richard Limbrick replied "Sure, bring in some diggers and make some mud holes and slides!"

The committee approached Shaun Collins, of Lactic Turkey Events, to manage the inaugural Arahoe Mud Run.

Intrigued, Collins accepted the challenge: "It was an ambitious project but after further discussions it became clear that it could work. It was a great open process and we've come up with a great course."

The organising committee wanted to create an event that would build community spirit, foster family fun and raise funds for the school's Operation Outdoors plan. Proceeds from the event will contribute to a swimming pool upgrade, shade protection and courtyard development.

The course is entirely contained within the school grounds, and includes mud slides, mud baths, climbing obstacles and dodging trees. Participants start in waves to avoid congestion and allow time for the obstacles to be mastered, and children under 5 can be accompanied by a non-paying parent.

Limbrick looks forward to an exciting day tomorrow: "As a fund-raising event, I think this is inspirational. It provides a really fun event for our families while also inviting our broader community to take part. It also challenges all of us to reconsider the types of events that we operate to raise funds for our school."

Arahoe Mud Run

What: Mud run and obstacle course.
When: Tomorrow.
Where: Arahoe Primary School, West Auckland.
For more information: www.ArahoeMudRun.co.nz
Entries are open until start time.