Muddy event marks end to summer vacation for some

KINGMAN - Get ready, get set, get dirty!

The 29th Annual Mighty Mud Mania event is right around the corner, sending kids back to school with a splash. On Aug. 9, Firefighter's Park will be covered in the mud obstacle course that has become a final summer tradition in Kingman for years.

Former Parks and Recreation Director Wes Crey started the event. In the early years, the event was a back-to-school blast for children. In the 29 years since, it has caked both young and old in mud in their quest to become champion.

Recreation Superintendent Keith Adams said the day starts with the 4- and 5-year-olds and moves up through the ranks. Other age groups include 6 and 7; 8 and 9; 10 and 11; 12 through 14; 15 through 17; 18 through 34; and 35 and up. Groups are also broken down by gender.

Approximately 418 people ran the obstacle course last year, Adams said, with a total of 800 to 1,000 in attendance.

The obstacle course tests the endurance of the competitors as they try to battle both the mud and the obstacle.

The quickest in each age group and gender receives a Mighty Mud Mania T-shirt and trophy, while second place receives a T-shirt.

Heats take off around 10 a.m. Age groups will be divided into heats to cut down on the number of people on the course at any given time. Those wanting to race should show up at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 9.

The Fire Department will be setting up the Hazmat shower for people to rinse off, Adams said.

Kiddie pools will also be set up and filled with mud for so those under 4 can get dirty too.

For more information, call Adams at 692-3109 or the Parks and Recreation Department at 757-7919.