​NNA Receives SHGM Sponsorship 2DamTuff Eco-Challenge Coming Oct.1

Scott Faulkner, Newaygo Nationals Association and Shelly Johnson, Gerber Memorial Chief Community Health Officer

​NNA Receives SHGM Sponsorship
2DamTuff Eco-Challenge Coming Oct.1

Organizers of the extreme eco-challenge dubbed 2DamTuff today marked the four-week countdown to the Oct. 1 obstacle course extravaganza, one of the most anticipated endurance contests in West Michigan. Registration for the event is still open, but only a few tickets remain available.

​Organizer Newaygo Nationals Association (NNA) also announced a $5,000 sponsorship from Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial, dedicated... 

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The course awaiting 2DamTuff participants

...for event operations and infrastructure, including a military-specification Leadership Training Course, being built over the next two years for team-building exercises.

“The public response to 2DamTuff has been awesome and it proves people in Newaygo County and beyond love a good challenge that tests their fitness, their endurance and their drive to succeed,” said Gabriel Slominski, NNA chairman. “We want to thank our partners at Gerber Memorial for supporting this community event in such a significant way. Events like 2DamTuff will help attract people and businesses to Newaygo County, and continue to make our community a regional destination for individuals and families who love the outdoors.”  

The 2DamTuff Eco-challenge is an opportunity for cross-trainers, weekend warriors and anyone who enjoys a rugged obstacle course to push their physical endurance. With four disciplines and 11 obstacles and eco-challenges, the 12-kilometer course in the Manistee National Forest runs between Hardy and Croton dams. Specifically, the event will include:

• 5 kilometers of rustic trail running in the shadow of the historic Hardy Dam, followed by three woodsmen’s challenges;
• A 5K road run and/or bike, followed by two unique climbing obstacles;
• 2 kilometers of open-water paddling on the Muskegon River’s Croton Pond, followed by a military style rope course near the finish line in Croton's MK Conklin Park; and
• A finish line after-party hosted by Newaygo Brewing Co.

The 2DamTuff Leadership Training Course will eventually provide area first responders with a place to test, train and engage in team-building exercises.  The training course will also be available to Newaygo County athletic teams for team building, strength, agility and coordination training, and for corporate functions and retreats in a wooded setting, said the NNA, which is coordinating the 2DamTuff event as well as the development of the LTC. 

“Gerber Memorial is thrilled to support a major community event that celebrates the outdoors, physical activity and sportsmanship, which is what 2DamTuff is all about,” said Shelly Johnson, Gerber Memorial’s chief community health officer. “Events like 2DamTuff showcase what Newaygo County has to offer to people who enjoy being outdoors and active. Gerber Memorial is proud to support events that encourage healthy lifestyles and fitness – in sponsorship and in staff. Together, we can improve the health and wellness of our community.”

In addition to the sponsorship, Gerber Memorial is providing on-site first aid support and services. More than 50 employees from Gerber Memorial and Tamarac, a member of Spectrum Health are participating.  

To learn more: facebook.com/2DamTuff or contact Theresa Buttleman at [email protected].

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