Nearly three dozen Marines will square off this summer in a bid to become the Corps’ ultimate tactical athletes — and this competition is as hardcore as it gets.

The High Intensity Tactical Training Ultimate Tactical Athlete Championship will include roughly 30 events such as a 100-yard, uphill climb with an 80-pound pack to retrieve and return ammo cans; 10 cannonball push-ups while wearing 40-pound vest; a 300-pound chain drag; a 400-meter speed lap with a 40-pound vest, weapon, and ammo can.

And that is just for starters.

This second annual event will be held at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, from Aug. 15 through 18. Thirty-two active-duty Marines who take top spots in preliminary events held at various installations through July 1 will square off during the championship. Marines can apply to compete at local Semper Fit and Recreation offices or installation fitness centers across the Corps.

Competitor’s in last year’s inaugural event quickly identified the need for committed training and a lot of heart to help push through.

“Do something every single day that will better yourself in some way,” said Cpl. Jonathan Fuller, who competed last year on behalf of Camp Pendleton, California. This can be done by using a HITT center or locker located on Marine bases. The program is also available online, and a free mobile app can be downloaded to any mobile device by visiting iTunes or Google Play.

Read more at Military Times

Image courtesy of pendleton.marines.mil