Advertising student Athena Dobson, who has been on placement with Disney in their Media Distribution department, trained and competed in the Tough Mudder this spring, raising money for Help for Heroes. Here she reflects on the experience:
Advertising student Athena Dobson
I began the year seeking a challenge, and boy did I find one! At the start of the New Year, I signed myself up for one of the toughest challenges I think I will ever complete – the Tough Mudder. Through fire, hail and thunderstorms my team of 3 and I completed the 13-mile, 26-obstacle challenge designed by the special armed forces to raise over £1500 for Help for Heros and earn the title of Tough Mudders.
But first, to understand how I got there: Picture a 5-day week training plan consisting of cardio, weight training and resistance training. Training before and after a full day’s work. A high protein, no carb diet with meals consisting of little more than protein shakes mixed with chicken breasts or fish. The tastelessness of food and the high-intensity regime tested my mental grit and determination like no exam or coursework could ever do.
Advertising student Athena Dobson (left)
For 5 months there was no pizza on a Friday night in; no late-night shenanigans – and the piece of chocolate we all desire on a rainy day never touched my lips. I was determined to see it through and never gave up!
Judgement day finally came, and in a typically British fashion there was a hailstorm! Mud hills to tunnels, across ropes and fire and everything else they could think of. The course was conquered.
I made a video of my experience so you could laugh, cry and share a small taste of what I faced on that day, and I could not recommend the challenge more. This is a great opportunity to achieve personal goals whilst raising money for an amazing foundation. If you really want to know how tough you are, take the challenge. But I warn you; don’t take it on light-hearted! It’s no walk in the park.