Former American Gladiator Dan Nitro Clark has organized an obstacle course race fit for only the most daring competitors the Gladiator Rockn Run.  This extreme, 17-obstacle challenge will be taking place at the Stoney Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Road in Shelby Township, on Saturday, August 17. The first wave will begin at 8 a.m.

The course challenges all participants to conquer extreme obstacles and harsh terrain, then to celebrate their conquests with a post race party filled with music, beer and food.

During the 3.5 mile course, participants will race through fiery flames in the Gladiator BBQ, blast through a waist-deep icy pool of water in the Polar Bear Plunge and slither along on their bellies through a trough of mud in the Mud Madness Challenge. There are also two nightmare mystery obstacles, and many other thrilling feats. Those too skeptical to participate are still invited to come check it out the course was built to accommodate spectators.

Gladiator Rockn Run organizer, Dan Nitro Clark, says that while the course might sound intimidating, he created the run to keep people healthy and fit, and encourages people with varying fitness levels to come out and give it a try.

The inspiration for Gladiator Rockn Run arose from my desire to create an unforgettable fitness experience that participants would not only come back to year after year, but would also tell their friends about, said Clark. Its an extension of my lifes passion to put America on the path to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

If the thought of a mud-slinging, fire-jumping obstacle course doesnt sound appealing, the after party probably will! The after party, also know as the Bad-Ass Party will include three bands, food, beer, and muddy Gladiator Rockn Run participants receiving awards for best times and costumes.

The Gladiator Rockn Run benefits Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), an organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. For families who have just received the autism diagnosis, TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments.

If these obstacles are too much to handle, you can always go run another boring long distance run, said Clark. Gladiator Rockn Run isnt for everyone. Its for those who are gladiator tough and dare to be different.

For more information and registration, please visit, www.gladiatorrocknrun.com.