MCRD Bootcamp Challenge: See what it takes to become a Marine

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — In the quest to become a Marine, you’ve got to hit the ground crawling.

The Marine Corps Recruiting Depot is hosting its 22nd annual Bootcamp Challenge Saturday, Oct. 19, where community members can train like a Marine for the day.

The three-mile obstacle course gives you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a Marine, with tunnel crawls, hurdles, trenches and many more challenging events.

“I think the biggest thing is not the obstacles, it’s the drill instructors because you are going to have 60 motivating drill instructors yelling at you while you’re doing this,” said Staff Sgt. Karlo Esquivel, a Boot Camp Challenge drill instructor.

Normally recruits face 20 drill instructors, but it only takes one to really push you. It helps to have Bruno the Marine Mascot cheering you on. He’ll be there Saturday waiting for you at the finish line.

“Bring everybody. We invite the whole community. You get the interaction, not only with the drill instructors but you get to see firsthand what we do here,” Esquivel said.

This humbling experience fosters a greater appreciation for the dedication and resilience of the men and women in uniform.

If getting down in-the-trenches isn’t your thing, MCRD is adding new family fun activities free for everyone including interactive games, camouflage painting, music and more.

Click here for more information on the event and how to sign up for the race. Deadline to sign up for the bootcamp is Wednesday, Oct. 16th at 11:59 p.m.

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