(Courtesy/Ed Rhee)
“Prove to yourself you can do hard things.”(Ryan Yeoman‘90). That is the spirit behind the Viking Rampage Run, an annual obstacle race that pushes students, alumni, and families beyond their limits. What began as one alum’s idea to bring a Spartan-style race to campus has grown into a 2.7 mile tradition filled with obstacles, laughter, and plenty of determination, all while celebrating the many woods and trails on campus.
Ten years ago, Yeoman, brought his love of Spartan and mud races back to his alma mater with a bold idea to transform the campus woods into an obstacle course that would challenge students to “prove they can do hard things.” With the support of Head of School, Melissa Soderberg, the Viking Rampage Run was born, and ever since, Yeoman has spent every year since designing and setting up the course himself, often spending weeks in the woods laying out trails and building obstacles.
Students, alumni, and families all come together on Alumni Weekend to take on the course, which is is run by a team of organizers, including Mr. Rhee, Associate Head of Middle School, along with Yeoman, staff members, and many volunteers who make the event possible.
The Viking Rampage Run isn’t just a jog through the woods. With more than 35 obstacles, from rope climbs and balance beams to cargo nets and natural creek crossings, the course winds through the acres of rugged trails. For those who don’t want to participate in the run, there is a slip-n-slide, making sure that everyone can get their share of fun.
Rampage Run has never been about competition alone. At its core, it showcases the joy of proving to yourself that you can conquer the course. For some, it’s the thrill of completing an obstacle they thought was impossible. For others, it’s the encouragement of friends and classmates who refuse to let them quit. Year after year, the run has become more than just a tradition. It’s a reminder of that the Viking community comes together to test limits, to celebrate strength, and to leave the woods with a story worth telling.
Success at the Viking Rampage Run isn’t measured by medals or official times either. It is measured by grit, by finishing muddy and proud. For organizers, a safe, injury-free race is always the top priority, but for participants, success often comes in smaller victories. Climbing a rope they didn’t think they could, running side-by-side with a teammate, or simply crossing the finish line with a smile. “It makes me feel good knowing that other people are feeling challenged and really enjoy getting out into our woods.” said Rhee.
Whether it is their first time lacing up for the muddy course or their tenth year cheering from the sidelines, participants walk away with the same reminder that the Viking community is strongest when it pushes forward together.
