Obstacle Illusion hits 5k trail

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mark Wyatt
  • 157th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
PEASE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.H. --  Ten Airmen from the New Hampshire Air National Guard challenged themselves on the hills of McIntyre Ski Area in Manchester running through mud and accomplishing obstacles during the inaugural Adventure 5k Race April 28.

Running in their first race of the season, a group led by Tech. Sgt. Saul Davidson, formed a team called Obstacle Illusion that includes service members and dependants alike.

The team intends to participate in six or seven races throughout New England this summer.

"For anyone who ever wanted to go through the basic training confidence course again, this is your opportunity," said Tech. Sgt. Saul Davidson, the team's captain. "It's also a great opportunity to come together as a team and support one another and build friendships within the organization."

Supporting one another among the more than 800 competitors was evident throughout the race as team members, as well as strangers, helped one another accomplish difficult obstacles together.

"The key is to not leave someone behind," said Tech. Sgt. Jessie Davidson. "It's all about teamwork and finishing together."

The team, outfitted with shirts that have Obstacle Illusion written across the chest and includes the 157th Air Refueling Wing shield on one sleeve and the United States flag on another, is honored to represent the New Hampshire Air National Guard at similar events later this summer.

"I'm extremely proud to wear this uniform shirt with the flag on one sleeve and the unit shield on another at these events," said Capt. Andy Smith. "It gave me goose bumps this morning when they gave me my shirt and I put it on."

Team members encourage others to join the team and experience the fun and camaraderie at these races.

"Whether you're interested in participating in each of our events or only a few, come and join our team Obstacle Illusion, and meet some great people and have a lot of fun," said the team captain, Davidson.

For more information on joining Obstacle Illusion, contact Tech. Sgt. Saul Davidson at saul.davidson@ang.af.mil or Tech. Sgt. Jessie Davidson at jessica.davidson@ang.af.mil or visit their Facebook page at Facebook.com/obstacleillusions.