Eagal Lakes Resort, Tracy

What does it take to be elite? In the case of The Great American Hero Obstacle Race, it requires climbing 12 foot walls, rope courses, crawling under nets, and conquering a total 40 obstacles sprinkled along a 10K course. These “Elite Waves,” which are limited to 200 participants or 100 sets of identical twins, challenge the most serious of athletes to compete for a cash prize. However, The Great American Hero Obstacle Race welcomes competitors of all fitness levels onto their 10K and 5K courses. Each route intersects two levels of obstacles; runners need only complete the ones that best meet their abilities. At the finish line waits a medal, a free beer, and the satisfaction that comes from helping a good cause; proceeds from the race benefit the Semper Fi Fund and the Susan G. Komen Foundation.