PT challenge stays 'true to our roots'

  • Published
  • By Anne Morrison
  • Hilltop Times staff
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  The Hill 5/6 program is summoning all Hill Airmen to grab a wingman and take part in the first annual Warrior Fitness Challenge.

The event, which will take place June 17 at the Warrior Fitness Center Outdoor Track, will be identical to the Air Force's physical fitness test with the exception that Airmen are required to wear ABU/BDU's and combat boots and must complete the challenge with a partner. The two additions live up to the Air Force's wingman and warrior ideals.

Staff Sgt. Anthony Diamond and Tech. Sgt. Nicholas Jakubisin collaborated to create the event after Diamond heard a friend from Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Ariz., discuss a similar challenge he had started that gained momentum.

Diamond said he wants to provide a contrast to the fitness events that are typically seen on base such as the fun-runs, 5ks and triathlons.

"We wanted to do something different and keep true to our roots, hence the PT test," said Diamond.

Diamond threw around different ideas for the challenge, one that included a leg of swimming in full ABU/BDUs, but finally decided to stick with what the airmen (NOTE: When speaking of the general population in the airforce, do you say airmen? Or do I need to include NCO's and all the other ranks?) already knew for the first year. And as the years pass, Diamond said, the challenge will have different activities added on.

The competition will be for time, i.e. the fastest pair wins, and the winners will have their name put on a plaque and placed in the Warrior Fitness Center.

The event will have three different age categories for male, female and combined competitors. Events kick off at 8:15 a.m. on the track across from the Warrior Fitness center with registration beginning at 7:35 a.m. The event costs $10 and proceeds will go towards promotion socials for the Hill 5/6.

For further questions, or to save a spot, contact Staff Sgt. Anthony Diamond at DSN 801-586-8240, or Anthony.diamond@hill.af.mil.