Tough Mudder, a 10+ mile obstacle course event, returns for a 4th year in Mansfield, Ohio on May 7 & 8, 2016. This year’s event returns to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio for the 2nd year. Tough Mudder is a big draw globally as events are held in Australia, England, as well as cities all over the United States. This event brings many opportunities to the area, whether you’re a participating athlete, business owner looking for exposure, or a helpful volunteer.
Tough Mudder really needs Sunday volunteers for the Ohio event. If you can gather 10-20 volunteers for May 8, Tough Mudder could donate to your organization. Tough Mudder and the local community all win!
The event brings its distinctive set of obstacles for participants to conquer. Some of this year’s obstacles include the introduction of “The Block Ness Monster,” which takes Mudders through 60 feet of slick, rotating barriers. Some obstacles have received an update from previous years, including “Cage Crawl,” where participants must lay on their back under 60 feet of steel fence and pull their way through a long, watery trench. And don’t forget “Pyramid Scheme,” an obstacle that requires teamwork as participants must scramble, climb, and push their way up a slippery incline with help from their fellow Mudders.
Bring your kids along and have them participate in the Fruit Shoot Mini Mudder challenge, a 1 mile obstacle course mud run specifically designed for adventure-seeking kids. Mini Mudders must be between the ages of 7-12, over 42 inches tall, and be accompanied by an adult to participate. Enrolling your Mini Mudder is the first step to becoming a participant in the Fruit Shoot Mini Mudder challenge.
“We have enjoyed hosting Tough Mudder and their participants these past 4 years,” said Lee Tasseff, Mansfield/Richland County CVB President. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to be included an elite series that hosts events worldwide. Tough Mudder holding an event in our area opens us up to a new audience of travelers. Being able to showcase nationally-recognized sites like the Ohio State Reformatory (filming site of The Shawshank Redemption) and now a world-class racing venue like Mid-Ohio Sports Car Courses is fantastic! It’s a lot of hard work, but also a lot of fun! We are happy for our local businesses.”
The Mansfield CVB connects Mudders to the community while they are here. In addition to “Welcome Mudders” banners in downtown Lexington, the CVB also compiles a way for participants and spectators to stretch their dollars while they’re here. “ MUD DEALS showcases offers for those attending the event from local restaurants and attractions. We want to roll out the red carpet to these athletes and their cheering sections. It’s been very well received over the past 3 years. Our staff is also onsite at the event helping to connect visitors to community offers,” said Kim Miers, CVB Marketing/Meetings Director.
The atmosphere at Tough Mudder is extremely positive and uplifting. Strangers often help each other out and encourage one another. Caity Campbell, a 2-time Tough Mudder runner comments further, “Everyone involved in the event is always so helpful and roots for one another. It’s like you’re all a part of one big team! Tough Mudder preaches teamwork and camaraderie, and the people involved in the event reflect that.”
The Mansfield/Richland County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau invites local businesses to be noticed by visitors to the area at Tough Mudder Ohio. With participants and spectators traveling from all across the state of Ohio and neighboring states, this is a wonderful opportunity to let people know about your business. Tough Mudder offers a variety of sponsorship opportunities that you can use to your advantage. Set up an onsite booth or interactive display to showcase what your business is all about! Volunteering is a great way to enjoy the event and be a part of an event that radiates positive energy! Perks such as a free Tough Mudder MVP T-shirt, 20% off merchandise at the event and online, and breakfast/lunch (depending on your shift) are offered to those who volunteer. Corporate packages are also available to involve employees or customers.
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Explore Sponsorship Opportunities Package/Local Sponsor Options
Print a Tough Mudder flyer for your office here!
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For questions, contact Kim Miers at the CVB: 419-525-1300 or kmiers@MansfieldTourism.com
Written by CVB intern Tim Metcalfe