Organizers and Participants Better Prepared for Warrior Dash | News

PLATTE CITY, Mo. — In August, 2011, two men died of heat exhaustion after competing in the Warrior Dash obstacle race. Thirteen others went to the hospital with heat illness.

Race organizers say they’re better prepared for the race which runs May 5 & 6. It’s a grueling three-mile race that challenges even the toughest of athletes. The condition of this year’s race is similar to the one in 2011 with 90 degree temperatures. As a precaution, the Warrior Dash added another water station and water obstacles to the course.

More than 13,000 runners are expected to participate in the 2012 race. Racers FOX 4 talked to said they took precautions to prevent heat related illness and even death. Organizers also say they’ve added some changes to the race.

“We added water at the start.  Water at the finish,” said event organizer Lauren Shield.  “Water throughout the festival.  As well as some shaded areas by the festival and by the medical tend there is an air-conditioned tent.”

The race is not only a thrill for participants but also benefits a good cause. Kansas City has raised more than $40,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.