Sacramento Super and Sprint Weekend

Van Vleck Ranch is the closest thing Spartan Race has on its calendar to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. If the weather remains dry, you will be confronted with an arduous, rolling landscape that goes as far as the eye can see. Should it rain, you will be presented with one of the most technical terrains you could hope to encounter -- it will become slippery and the slopes will become a battle for even the most seasoned racer.

That’s what makes Sacramento such a special venue. Prairies that are normally home to the cattle may seem timid at first glance, but this venue lulls you into a false sense of security. The lakes on the venue have a clay that will stick to you and bog you down if you let it. The hills, while not high, are relentless and roll on for mile after mile. Add in the wind that rushes over the venue and you have the perfect cocktail of terrain, the elements, and of course, obstacles to test your mettle.

Such is the popularity of this northern California venue, that many southern Californians - and those from further afield – make the annual pilgrimage to one of the most exciting events on the calendar. Remember that should the weather take a turn for the worse, you’re a Spartan, and Spartans never surrender.

TOP REASONS TO TAKE ON THIS COURSE:

1. No visit to Sacramento is complete without having visited the famous Firehouse restaurant. Opened in 1960, it hosted both of Ronald Reagan’s inaugural dinners and has done the same for every governor since.

2. You can visit the Old Sacramento Underground Tour. This fascinating look at what Sacramento was like in the mid-to-late 1800’s was raised around four feet between 1860 and 1870 to prevent flooding.

3. Talk to any local resident, and they will rave about Gunther's Quality Ice Cream, Leatherby's Family Creamery and Vic's Ice Cream. Don’t pass up a chance to experience a taste that only Sacramentans know.

4. What Southern California has to offer in the way of beaches, Sacramento offers similiar beauty with their stunning riverbanks. Should you get the time and the inclination, be sure to laze away an hour or two at the side of a river and soak in the ambience.

5. The Local Roots Food Tours will take you to hidden-away places to try local cuisine through downtown, midtown or east Sacramento. You’ve burned the calories, so why not replace them?

6. Sacramento is teeming with trees, flowers, plants and various flora and fauna. If you have allergies, make sure to bring your medication!

7. For Spartans who are historical buffs, be sure to check out Sutter’s Fort in the heart of the city. This will take visitors on a trip to the past back to the California Gold Rush days.