Spartan Trifecta brings intense athletic challenge back to Colorado Springs May 30-31

Fort Carson Army Base hosts obstacle course endurance test

By William J. Dagendesh

A popular and extremely challenging obstacle course event that tests physical prowess, mental attitude and competitive spirit will return soon to the Pikes Peak region.

The 2026 Colorado Springs Spartan Trifecta Weekend, a series of obstacle course races designed to test agility, endurance and physical strength will be held May 30-31 at Fort Carson Army Base in Colorado Springs. 

The Trifecta is an obstacle course and racing challenge in which participants earn a special medal by completing three different Spartan race distances: the Sprint 5K (3 miles); the Super 10K (6 miles); and the Beast 21K (12+ miles) within a calendar year. 

The Ultra 50K (31.1 miles) and Kids Race 1-3K (about 1.86 miles) also will be offered.

The Beast 21K and Ultra 50K will be held May 30. The Sprint 5K and Kids Race are set for May 30-31, while the Super 10K is May 31. Start times vary by race category so check in early to kick off at the right time.

The Sprint 5K is considered the entry level race for many participants on their Spartan journey. 

The Beast 21K is a half-marathon obstacle course race known for its challenging and grueling nature. Participants will encounter 30 obstacles consisting of brutal ascents and descents designed to push their legs to the limit. Although many regard this course as the ultimate test of strength and endurance, the Ultra 50K consists of 60 obstacles and significant elevation gain.

Based on racer testimonials, last year’s event was not just challenging, but user friendly. 

Michael McCullough said the race was a lot of fun: “Wish (we) had more in Colorado.”

Jake Yager added, it was a “great race. Awesome atmosphere and great setup!”

Luckily, participants can choose from various race types with each offering varying levels of distance and difficulty. Upon completion, participants earn a trifecta medal wedge piece that snaps together with other pieces to form the complete Trifecta award, symbolizing grit and endurance. Larger medals are offered for multiple Trifectas in a year.

Also, a free T-shirt, finisher beverage and Athletic Brewing Company beverage for non-alcoholic drinkers will be available. If this sounds exciting, read on.

Fort Carson offers breathtaking, high-elevation terrain (5,800 feet in elevation) that taxes lungs and hearts. Throw in some mud pits, rocky trails, steep climbs and muscle-burning obstacles and competitors find their minds and spirits being pushed to the limits. 

Registration opens at 6 a.m. Waves of 250 racers will be released every 15 minutes. Participants are encouraged to arrive 90 minutes before start time, which allows participants plenty of time to park, pick up registration packets and warm up. Participants' exact start times are listed on their barcode and will be posted in their Spartan Account about 10 days prior to the event date.

To register visit the homepage for the 2026 race.

Happening elsewhere…

The 2026 Denver DEKA FIT & Ultra also is scheduled for May 30 in Aurora. 

DEKA FIT is a hybrid fitness race with 10 fitness zones and 500 meters of running between each zone, for a total of 5K of running. It tests endurance, strength and mental toughness for all fitness levels. 

By contrast, the DEKA Ultra is an amped-up version of the DEKA FIT, consisting of five full DEKA FIT circuits for a total of 25K (15.5 miles). Participants can expect a longer, more demanding test of endurance, including 25K of running and completing a total of 50 fitness zones.

Like many Spartan events, the Denver DEKA FIT & Ultra likely will use a tiered pricing structure, meaning the earlier participants register, the more they save. DEKA Ultra includes a pit stop zone where competitors have access to support items, food and crew assistance. Register here.