A group of nine friends from Goulburn decided to make a weekend of it though they only completed the 20 kilometre course once.

Brooke Stephens, Gavin and Nadine Moroney, Steve and Donna Boyt, Brian Graham, Mark Simon and Brad Evans formed a team to challenge themselves on the strenuous, mud and ice-bath obstacle course.

 It was also an excuse for a weekend away with friends, without the kids.

The nine friends travelled to Gosford on Friday and were ready to start the course in the first wave of participants.

“There is no time limit and you can either do the short course of about 16 kilometres or if you are feeling fit enough go for the whole 20,” Brooke Stephens said. “Joe couldn’t come he had to work.”

“You can walk or run and the aim is to help each other conquer the obstacles.

 “As we went around the course we chatted with other participants, some of whom follow the Tough Mudder courses all over Australia and even chase them overseas.

 “If you can’t negotiate a particular obstacle you can go around but most people help each other no matter whether they belong to their team or not. “We had a team and were able to help others through or over the obstacles.

We didn’t catch up with any other Goulburn people on the course but we believe there were other’s participating.

 “We had a lot of fun and we would consider doing it again next year The Tough Mudder certainly tested our fitness and stamina as well as our ability to work as a team.

“I think it took us about four hours to go the whole distance and we certainly were looking forward to a cool drink afterwards.”

Another Goulburn person who challenged herself was Nerida Eagles who tested her physical and mental fitness alongside her sister.

They survived the Tough Mudder course with massive grins on their faces having conquered obstacles they never thought possible.

Brooke is preparing for the men’s health, and movember this Wednesday evening from 5.30pm at Absolute Fitness, located at Shop 4 -130 Lansdowne Street just around the corner from Elders.

 There will be several guest speakers including Dr Rod McConnell, an ambulance paramedic and fitness experts. The evening is aimed at lifting men’s awareness, encourage them to look out for each other  and be aware of warning signs and know how to avoid certain health and fitness issues. Men of all shapes sizes and ages are encouraged to attend.