Operation THUNDER

Operation THUNDER

April 12, 2025 | Glasgow, Virginia

Distance: 11.5 +/- miles

Weight: 10 / 25 / 50 lbs dry

Elevation: 2,133 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Start Location: Balcony Falls Trailhead, Virginia

Event Finish Time: Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 1500 hrs

Finish Location: Balcony Falls Trailhead, Virginia

Situation

Operation THUNDER, taking place on 12 April 2025, is an 11.5-mile rucking event with a 2,133 ft elevation gain. Participants can choose to carry 10 lbs (LIGHT), 25 lbs (STANDARD), or 50 lbs (HEAVY), making it suitable for various fitness levels. The loop course, free of checkpoints, allows candidates to maintain their pace and aim for fast times while navigating the scenic terrain.

The event is set near the town of Glasgow, Virginia, a small, rural area known for its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and outdoor adventure opportunities. This quiet town provides an ideal backdrop for the challenge, offering stunning natural views that enhance the event’s adventurous spirit. Less than an hour from Lynchburg, the location is accessible for those traveling from nearby areas or looking for accommodations in a larger city.

Operation THUNDER promises a tactical fitness experience that blends endurance, speed, and mental resilience. With varied weight options and no checkpoint distractions, candidates can focus on pushing their limits, whether they're looking to test their speed or tackle the course under heavy load. This event offers a unique opportunity for personal challenge in a beautiful yet rugged setting.

Mission

THUNDER LIGHT. Candidates must carry 10 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 11.5 +/- mile route in under 5 hours to pass and under 3.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation THUNDER LIGHT Dog Tag.

THUNDER. Candidates must carry 25 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 11.5 +/- mile route in under 5 hours to pass and under 3.75 hours to earn the GBF Operation THUNDER Dog Tag.

THUNDER HEAVY. Candidates must carry 50 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 11.5 +/- mile route in under 5 hours to pass and under 4 hours to earn the GBF Operation THUNDER HEAVY Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Balcony Falls Trailhead, Virginia. At 0730 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0800 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 THUNDER is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 10 / 25 / 50 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
• LifeStraw (or similar water filtration / purification system)
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)

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.