Spartans descend on Killington

Ascending Killington mountain many times in the Spartan Beast, Ultra Beast, and Sprint races, Sept. 17-18
KILLINGTON—This weekend, Sept. 17-18, Killington Resort will  host Spartan racers, who will embark on a unique and fun obstacle course. Killington, the birthplace of the Spartan Beast, hosted the Spartan World Championship Sept. 20-21, 2014. This year, athletes again will converge to play in what is known as “Joe’s backyard.” Spartan founder Joe DeSena calls Pittsfield home, just a few miles north of Killington.
Participants can expect steep slopes, off-trail descents, massive climbs, and chilly swims. “Come see where it all began and witness the menace that gave Spartan Race its roots,” organizers state. “Be forewarned though: this course has been known to destroy those not prepared in their mind, body, legs and soul.”
With 12-plus miles of course and over 30 obstacles to battle, the Spartan Beast will test the mental and physical strength of Spartan athletes of all ages. The Spartan Ultra Beast, also taking place on Saturday, will test the most extreme of Spartans, putting them to the test over the course of 24-plus miles and 60 miles (two laps).
On Sunday, the Spartan Sprint ofters athletes a shorter but equally intense  3-plus mile, 20-plusobstacle course.
A Spartan Kids Race will also be offered on Saturday and Sunday. Based on age, the kids’ races have obstacles just like the grown up versions. Registration is available right up until the date of the events, Sept. 17-18, at spartan.com.
The race will take place resort-wide. For more information, visit killington.com.
See section two of this edition for photos and additional information for athletes as well as spectators of the events.

Photo courtesy © Spartan Race Inc.
The fire jump is the frequently the final obstacle in the Spartan Beast. These three are almost finished!