MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marines from all across Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni were on hand to participate in the Ultimate Unit PT Challenge Gladiators Competition Sept. 27 at the Penny Lake fields and the Main Gym's indoor pool.
The friendly competition gave the units an opportunity to show their stuff and enjoy a day filled with fun and unique challenges.
The games started at 10 a.m. inside of the Main Gym with the teams going head to head in the kayak relay, wacky swim relay, river raft race and finally the canoe tug-o-war.
Instead of using paddles, participants had to rely on themselves and their teammates during the kayak relay and river raft race. Motors and rudders all came in the form of the contestant's hands digging into the water in an attempt to outdo their competitors.
Later in the day the athletes took to the Penny Lake fields for another barrage of unique events such as the 10-legged race, the bull pull and an obstacle course.
One event, called the human sphere barrel race, consisted of two teammates, one maneuvering a sphere containing their partner along a specified path to the finish line where the disoriented athlete was finally released from the sphere, only to complete the event by running to the end of the course and back.
"I didn't expect it to be that hectic," said Seaman Mayu Kodera, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Squadron 71 administrative personnel, about her experience inside of the sphere. "I had a good time though. It was great to be able to come out and compete with the United States military personnel."
Despite the high level of competition the contestants were glad to have the opportunity to spend the day with their teammates and competitors alike, according to Sgt. Jed Mullis, Provost Marshal Office accident investigator.
"PMO has a team every year," said Mullis. "We don't really come out to win as much as we do just to have a good time. It's all about teamwork and esprit de corps."
Teamwork was definitely a key factor in the majority of the events, but there were some that took the efforts of one while the rest cheered them on. Events like the 'Own the Bone' competition, where two gladiators stood inside of a 16-foot circle, each holding onto the 'bone' with one hand with the intent of ousting their opponent from the ring.
"It's a very tiring event," said Lance Cpl. Philip Hendrickson, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 bulk fuels specialist and 'Own the Bone' champion. "You have to have the right attitude for it. Endurance doesn't take as bad of a toll if you think you're a champ, and that's what I was doing."
In every form of competition there are winners and losers, but sometimes that doesn't seem to be as much of a highlight, noted Mullis.
"Things like this really brings the Marine community aboard the Station closer together."