Introduction

Logs, Stretcher and Obstacle course races are examples of Battle Physical Training (PT) Competitions and can be a stimulating alternative to the ‘normal’ sessions encountered by participants in their training regimens.

RM, Obstacle 5a — Bottom Field Assault course at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM).

Aim

The aim of Log, Stretcher and Obstacle course races is to stimulate soldiers/clients mentally and physically to:

Improve endurance;
Improve agility;
Improve co-ordination;
Develop team spirit; and
Develop determination.

Planning and Preparation

Good planning and preparation is required before any competition commences and factors which should be taken in to account include:

Booking Facilities
Booking in advance.
Avoid double bookings.
Alternative areas.
Is it adequate (size etc)?
Is it safe?

Equipment Required

Score-board.
Table, chairs and covers (e.g. tents).
Whistle for referee/IC.
Different audible sounds.
Stopwatches.
Rules of the competition.
Risk Assessment.
Communications.
Bibs.
Markers/mine tape.
Stationery.
Order of play/march.
Transport.
Works party.
First Aid.

Officials

Referees.
Timekeeper.
Scorekeeper.
Route officials/markers.

Layout of Area

Route.
Officials area / VIP Area.
Briefing area.
Warm-up and cool-down area.
Changing area.
First aid point.
Car parking.

Scoring System

1st = 3 points.
2nd = 2 points.
3rd = 1 point

Scoreboard

The score board should be presentable, neat and tidy and should contain the following information as illustrated in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Example scoreboard
Team Name	Time	Penalties	Points	Position
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3
Team 4

Summary

The aim of Logs and stretcher races is to stimulate the class mentally and physically, to improve speed, endurance, co-ordination and team spirit.

The aim of Obstacle course races are to confirm, consolidate and improve the skills that are required to manoeuvre a man or a body of men over set obstacles that may be encountered by them, as quickly and as safely as possible.

Obstacle Course, Stretcher Races and Log Race competitions require considerable planning and preparation prior to the event if they are to be successful.