Operation PONY

Operation PONY

January 11, 2025 | San Diego, CA, USA

Distance: 5.5 +/- miles

Weight: 10 lbs dry

Elevation: 1,414 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 0830 hrs

Start Location: Visitor Center Loop Trailhead

Event Finish Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 1400 hrs

Finish Location: Visitor Center Loop Trailhead

Situation

Operation PONY takes place on the same day as Operation PACKHORSE, designed for those wanting to try a Green Beret Fitness event but unsure if they're ready for the full challenge. At just over 5 miles and with a 10 lb pack, this event is open to any fitness level. The beautiful Mission Mountains area of San Diego provides the perfect backdrop for Operation PONY.

Mission

Candidates must carry 10 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 5.5 +/- mile route in under 3 hours to pass and under 1 hour to earn the GBF Operation PONY Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Visitor Center Loop Trailhead. At 0800 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0830 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed. The route for Operation PONY is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 10 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Personal First Aid Kit

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Hiking poles

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice.

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 30. Minimum number of candidates 10.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.