Colorado Springs is stacked with annual events like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and Colorado Balloon Classic, but this summer proves to be one of the dirtiest and most intense. Four rip-roaring challenges will drag competitors and spectators through the mud, really. Whether it’s a mythological Spartan Challenge, a Dirty Dash or a 1,400-foot elevation climb with an elephant-sized reward, there’s no reason not to get a little filthy this May and August. For more Colorado Springs area events, visit www.peakradar.com.

Spartan Race – Hades on Earth
May 5-6, 2012
Spartan Race is the world’s leading obstacle race series of pure primitive craziness. Spartan Race will take place at Fort Carson Army Base. The event is Military Sprint distance (approximately four miles) with a few extra “surprises” compliments of the 4th Infantry and Special Forces units. This Spartan-style race has its own unique rules, rankings and Military medals. Be warned, there is fire, muddy water, barbed wire and a veritable hell, or Hades, on earth. If the courses don’t damage entrants psyche, the clock will. Mud, bruises and awesome stories are free. www.spartanrace.com

Dirt Around the Collar
May 19, 2012
While there isn’t exactly dirt involved, competitors will be rewarded with a poo-tacular prize. It’s a run like no other, so the medallions should be unique, too. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo called on Lucky and Kimba, African elephants, to help make a special memento for the winners of the 4th annual Run to the Shrine. First the elephant poop was dried, then molded and cured with epoxy resin. This event is the only day of the year foot traffic is allowed on the breathtaking road to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun. Runners tackle the nearly 1,400-foot elevation gain that winds through the zoo with giraffes, tigers and grizzlies lining the course. All proceeds help feed and care for Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s 800+ animals. www.cmzoo.org 

Brag like the Big Dogs
August 4, 2012
Let’s face it, not everyone is a Greek-sized competitor. Not excited by electrocution? Then the inaugural Big Dog Brag is the mud run of choice. Don’t be fooled, the Big Dog Brag isn’t a Saturday Stoll. There’s no lack of mud pits, walls to scale, cargo net climbs or boulders. The course was designed for participants 13 and up and all fitness levels by a master challenge course architect and national rock crawl track designer. This event lets the whole family feel like a big dog. Proceeds support year-round programs for Extreme Impact and Adventure With A Purpose. www.bigdogbrag.com

Dirty Dash Mud Run
August 11, 2012
Defy the basic laws of running and relationships: push friends in the mud and drag their names through it. The Dirty Dash will take entrants and their friends to a Rocky Mountain High that doesn’t require an intervention or a visit from a friendly DEA agent. Crawl through pipes, launch down giant slip ‘n slides and navigate balance beams. This dirty endeavor even includes a beer (or root beer) chug to finish. Not only can spectators come for free, but they can buy water balloons at the Hog Wash obstacle to pummel runners as they pass. All the proceeds go to the American Cancer Society’s Climb for the Cure. www.thedirtydash.com