On September 9, Jason Pinchot, M.D., an assistant professor in the Interventional Radiology Section, successfully completed the annual Wisconsin Tough Mudder Challenge. This race is a hardcore, 12-plus mile run with over 20 obstacles, designed by British Special Forces, interspersed along the way. These obstacles include fire walking, plunges into ice cold water, scaling 20-foot-high walls, and 10,000 volt electric shocks, just to name a few. Dr. Pinchot successfully completed the entire course in less than three hours. Why would anyone in their right – or even semi-right – mind voluntarily put themselves through this? Well, it is for an excellent cause.
The Tough Mudder Challenge supports the Wounded Warrior Project, which serves to raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members. The Wounded Warrior Project gives returning veterans the tools they need for an easy transition back into civilian life. These tools include combat stress recovery programs, adaptive sports programs, benefits counseling, and employment services. To date, the Tough Mudder Challenge has raised over $3.5 million for the program.
Dr. Pinchot is already planning to participate in the Wisconsin Tough Mudder Challenge next year, and invites anyone interested to join him on a team. If interested, please email Dr. Pinchot and let him know.