Combat BBQ: Not your average cookout Published March 26, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Robert L. McIlrath 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Comprehensive Airmen fitness is key to helping Airmen make sound choices and develop resiliency. Airmen at Sheppard have a chance to improve their mental, physical and social fitness, all at the same time through the first-ever Combat Barbeque event. Sheppard is scheduled to host a Combat Barbeque April 24, 2015, at Wind Creek Park with the competition teams running the course starting at 8 a.m. and a base-wide lunch serving 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Units from around base will compete for the coveted Combat Barbeque trophy, to be displayed in their squadron, and the chance to boast as a "survivor" of the Combat Barbeque. Each team will run through the mud-run style obstacle course consisting of multiple stations stretching across more than 3 miles. "This is exciting because instead of a normal sports day or barbeque you have a new adventure that we don't see on base too often," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Joshua Horton, obstacle course organizer. "This pits teams from across the base against each other to see who can run three miles the fastest while navigating through unknown obstacles." Each unit will produce a team to participate in the obstacle course, but they are not limited to just one. There will be a variety of hurdles for each team to tackle, all combat related, such as litter carries, low crawling and much more. "Who doesn't like the opportunity to have fun at work," said U.S. Air Force Capt. Daniel Connors, event organizer. "If you aren't running the course, find out when your units team is running and come out to support them." The obstacle course will also be available to anyone who wants to run through once the competing teams have completed their navigation of the course. "If you get there early enough, you might get a chance to see the last few teams' reaction to the surprise obstacle at the end," Connors said. The day will conclude with a traditional Texas barbeque put on by the 82nd Force Support Squadron. Tickets cost only $5 which includes a barbeque plate, a drink and access to fun and games. "It will be fun," Connors said. "Not in the 'voluntold' fun way, but real fun." At 1 p.m., the wing quarterly awards will be announced along with the grand prize winner. To sign up for the Combat Barbeque, as a competitor or to enjoy the barbeque, contact your unit representative.