Getting ready to tackle a Hurricane Heat? Here's a few things you may want to know:
Will I do the same course as a Sprint or Super?
Very unlikely. We like to mix things up with the Hurricane Heat and having you simply do the course would prevent you from having an exciting and unique experience.
Can I pick my team?
Not likely. The Cadre want to get you out of your comfort zone. Your teams will mostly be chosen at random, this way you always meet someone new.
Can I do it with my friend?
Of course! Bring out as many of your friends as you can. We won’t guarantee you’ll all be on the same team, but we can promise you’ll get one crazy experience that you can all laugh about after!
What if I go and I don’t know anyone there?
Spartans are very welcoming. You’ll make new friends so quick, you’ll forget you even asked this question.
Can I do the Sprint afterwards?
If the Hurricane Heat is taking place on the same weekend as a Spartan Sprint at the same location, then absolutely! The only thing stopping you is, you. Go out there and get after it.
Will it count towards my Trifecta?
The Hurricane Heat and all Endurance Events are a separate series from the Sprint, Super, and Beast. The Hurricane Heat does not count towards the Trifecta.
How far do you have to run?
As far as the cadre tell you to.
Do I have to bring equipment?
Yes. There is a gear list, you can expect to receive it the week of the event.
Will I get wet like on a Spartan Race course?
Very likely, the cadre tend to have an affinity to taking dips in the rolling mud and having water fights. They also enjoy the occasional hydro-burpee (that’s what they call burpees in water).
What if I can’t run fast or lift heavy items as well as other people?
This is a team event, your team will have to work together to finish the objective in the time allotted or face the penalty. Don’t worry, you’ll figure it out.
I heard that it’s military-based. I don’t have a military background. Will that count against me?
There are certainly many military aspects that have come out in the Hurricane Heats but not having a military background will not have any effect on your participation in the event.
Can I do a Hurricane Heat even if I’ve never done a Spartan Race?
You most certainly can! Some of our cadre even had their very first Spartan experience at a Hurricane Heat before they even set foot on the Spartan course.
How long does the Hurricane Heat last?
Typically these events can range anywhere from 3-4 hours. The cadre like to go the full 4 hours as often as they can.
Can I use the annual pass for the HH?
The Hurricane Heat is mostly sold as an add-on to the race. You can use your annual pass to register for the race that is happening that weekend and add-on the Hurricane Heat for $25 while you are going through the registration and checkout process.
Will there be photos so I can post on Facebook?
Depends who shows up to to the event. If a shadow wants to take photos and share them with the participant it is advised to upload all photos taken to the Spartan Hurricane Heat Facebook group. Sometimes the cadre will take photos and upload them as well.
Although all events are different, generally what percent is team and what percent is individual?
This will vary greatly from each event. How much you put into the event on an individual basis is ultimately up to you. How hard you push yourself and your team is up to you. No matter whether it’s a team challenge or an individual challenge, you’re there to push yourself.
Are there general items on the gear list that never change?
Yes.
- All athletes MUST wear a black shirt. Can be a t-shirt, sports bra, tank top, whatever you want, but it must be black.
- 1 Headlamp (per person). It will be dark.
- 1 Black Sharpie Marker per athlete.
- 2 Chemlights
- 1 Camelback, backpack, ruck, purse, whatever you want to call it. You must be able to carry your own water supply.
- 4 Salt/electrolyte packets. If you start to cramp up, eat the packets and drink some water.
- 2-4 energy gel shots or energy bars, whichever flavor you prefer.
What happens if I have a long term injury or condition that means I can’t do a specific exercise or task?
You can either modify the exercise, or in some cases you may need to rely on your teammates to help you figure out a solution that is accepted by the cadre.
Is there a weight requirement to carry in your gear?
Not for the Hurricane Heat, there typically is for the Twelve Hour Hurricane Heat (HH12HR).
What’s the biggest difference between a HH and a HH12HR?
The Hurricane Heat is focused primarily on teamwork and the fourth line of the Warrior Ethos, I will never leave a fallen comrade. The twelve hour Hurricane Heat or HH12HR sets a standard and helps determine who is eligible for the Spartan Agoge. The event consists of team and individual challenges with a primary focus on the first line of the Warrior Ethos, I will always place the mission first.
What if I need to go to the bathroom?
Make it quick. The event does not have a Pause button. We keep moving. If you need to dip off into the woods or into a porta potty you better make it fast, and always let a fellow Hurricane Heater know should you decided to step away to take care of business, we don’t want to have to come looking for you.
Should I wear layered clothing and gloves? I am scared of the cold.
You’re probably going to get cold and wet at some point. More clothes may make you warmer, but it will also make you heavier (when wet). What you wear is up to you, just make sure you know yourself, your body, how your body handles certain situations, and come prepared. Just do not forget all your clothes must be black color.
Is there somewhere I can research past events or talk to people that have done it before?
Yes. On Facebook, there is a group made up of people that includes veterans of the Hurricane Heat. Ask them for advice and they will help you. You can also go here for the main page.
I can’t find my city on the Hurricane Heat events. Will my city have a HH or HH12HR?
If you cannot see your city on the schedule, it means there isn’t one. There may be one being organized, but until Spartan Race gets all the information they need (land permits, legalities, red tape, etc), we cannot post a link or page that has a registration link on it.
I heard a rumor that there may be a HH or HH12HR in my city. Is it true?
Spartan Race doesn’t deal in rumors. Only facts. When Spartan has everything that it needs to make an event live, it is posted on the website as soon as possible. Use www.spartan.com and official Spartan Race media as your only sources of information.