Most of us are familiar with the show “Wipeout” and their infamous ‘Big Balls’. I have watched the show since its inception and continually laugh at the crazy obstacles and wipeouts. Some people may cringe at other’s people unfortunate falls, but I find it highly entertaining (I swear I’m not heartless). For those of you who also love seeing what sucker punch might get a contestant off the course track, now’s your chance to feel like you are a participant in the show. 
The Ridiculous Obstacle Challenge (R.O.C.) 5K is game show inspired from shows like “Wipeout”, “American Gladiators”, “Double Dare” and “MXC”. This event is a 5K, but you are running to a variety of different challenges scattered through R.F.K Stadium in Washington D.C! I know what you’re thinking, potentially the most important and hugely serious question. Will they have the big balls? The answer is YES. Big wrecking balls will be swinging side to side as you cross over a watery area trying to knock you off your path. But the big balls obstacle isn’t the only one you will encounter. (P.S. the number of times I used the words ‘big balls’ in one paragraph must be a record.)
So now that I’ve got your attention with my big balls (insert laughs here), I’m sure you’re wondering what the other obstacles will be.
Well, ROC Race 5K will feature 12 awesome obstacles. Everything from a tarzan swing, to a belly flop drop, to the world’s largest moon bounce. You even slide into the finish line off of the world’s largest inflatable slide. Yes, you read that right – the world’s largest inflatable slide. All your dreams have come true.
Now don’t go wearing your best running shoes for this 5K. Since it’s more about fun than competition, there will definitely be water and who knows what getting sprayed at you. So leave your good kicks at home and wear some that might have been sitting in the closet for a year or two. The ROC Race is for people ages 13 and up and people of any athletic ability. It’s untimed and you can either participate as an individual or as a team. I’ve seen pictures of teams from events past, and they seem to go all out decked in matching costumes or shirts. Also, if you’re worried about an obstacle, if you really want, you can skip an obstacle if it’s not for you.
I would hope that my encouraging words and these awesome pictures would have already persuaded you to sign up (like right now because spaces are going like hotcakes), but if not, here’s a video of the ROC Race 5k to give you a taste of what it will be like!
So don’t miss out on these big balls and other ‘ridiculous’ obstacles. It’s a great way to keep the summer fun going or an excuse to get all of your friends together for something other than going to the movies. The first time slot is already sold out, so hurry up and register for the afternoon!
R.O.C Race 5K
Aug. 10, 2013
R.F.K. Stadium
12 – 5 p.m.
$70 – $75
rocrace.com/dc/
(All photos courtesy of ROC Race 5k)