The rugged terrain of southeastern Ohio, where rolling plains meet the imposing Appalachian foothills, provided the perfect backdrop for a challenge that would test the limits of both man and boy. A team ruck match, a demanding hybrid event that combines the rigors of long-distance hiking, or “rucking,” with the precision of competitive shooting, awaited my ten-year-old son, Blake, and me. This wasn’t your average father-son outing; it was a crucible designed to forge bonds through shared hardship, a test of endurance, teamwork, and tactical proficiency.

Ruck Match: The Concept

For those unfamiliar with the concept, a ruck match is a grueling affair. It’s not a leisurely Sunday stroll; it’s a calculated assault on the body and mind. The “ruck” portion, in particular, demands significant physical exertion. Competitors are required to carry a substantial load, including a slung rifle, at least five 30-round magazines, ammunition for all shooting stages, an individual first aid kit (IFAK), a minimum of one quart of water, a weapon-mounted light, and a carrying system – typically a chest rig, plate carrier, or ruck pack. To further amplify the challenge, a 25-pound minimum weight requirement, excluding the rifle, had to be maintained throughout the event. This meant packing extra ammunition, water, and other gear, transforming our rucks into formidable burdens.

Communication was paramount. To ensure seamless interaction between Blake and me, we utilized suppressors, minimizing the auditory interference and allowing for clear, concise communication even amidst the cacophony of gunfire.

Arsenal of Endurance

Our gear selection was meticulously curated, reflecting our commitment to performance and reliability. I opted for my IWI Galil, a 5.56×45 powerhouse adorned with a custom Pro2 Customs Miami Tiger Stripe cerakote – a touch of flamboyant functionality. It was equipped with a Primary Arms 1-8x scope in an American Defense Manufacturing mount, and a Sylvan Arms 30 cal suppressor. Blake wielded his IWI Zion, enhanced with a Timney trigger for precision, a Primary Arms 1-8x scope, and a Sylvan Arms 5.56×45 suppressor. We both relied on SuperVel 55gr 223 ammunition and 30-round KCI translucent magazines.

Beyond the rifles, we were outfitted with Holosun Raid and P.ID lights, comprehensive individual first aid kits with quick clot, and our rucks: my Vertx Overlander and Blake’s Mystery Ranch two-day assault pack. Both were loaded to the 25-pound minimum, including three quarts of water each. Hunters HD gold glasses provided essential eye protection. The absence of plate carriers or chest rigs, a rookie oversight, would later compound the already significant physical demands.

The Ruck Match Gauntlet

The match commenced with an accuracy drill, a baptism by fire that tested the teams’ marksmanship under stress. Groups of ten teams engaged targets from various positions, including sprinting, demanding speed and precision. This initial phase served as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.

Following the accuracy drill, teams reported to the “operating base,” where range officers assigned them to various stages, ensuring a balanced flow of competitors. The match consisted of three shooting stages and three rucks, each designed to push participants to their limits. The shooting stages ranged from point-blank engagements to 500-yard precision shots. The rucks involved approximately three miles of hiking over challenging terrain.

Blake and I adopted a strategic approach, alternating shooting and rucking stages to allow for recovery and minimize fatigue. This decision proved invaluable, particularly during the grueling rucks. One stage involved dragging a tractor tire, which weighed more than Blake, up a steep incline, followed by a ¾-mile hike to a marker and back. The sheer physical exertion was immense, requiring a collaborative effort and a touch of assistance from a sympathetic range officer.

The remaining rucks involved navigating the rugged terrain, ascending and descending steep hillsides. The breathtaking scenery provided a momentary respite from the physical demands, but the challenges were relentless.  The shooting stages in the match ranged from memorizing targets, round counts, and target orders to applying medical to a downed ally while engaging targets approaching the downed ally. 

Growing As Father & Son

An unexpected and invaluable aspect of the match was the complete absence of cell phone reception. This forced us to disconnect from the digital world, allowing for uninterrupted quality time together. Spending hours traversing the wilderness, reading maps, and simply conversing with my son was an experience I will cherish forever.

This match transcended mere competition. It was a profound bonding experience, a testament to the power of shared hardship. In a world saturated with screens and distractions, this event provided a unique opportunity for us to connect on a deeper level. We pushed each other, both physically and mentally, and emerged from the experience stronger, both as individuals and father and son.

The Finish Line

As we crossed the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated, I knew we had achieved something extraordinary. This ruck match was a testament to the enduring bond between a father and his son, a reminder that the most rewarding moments in life are often found in the face of adversity.  This father and son-team, joined by my oldest, will be at the next Team Ruck match by Whiskey Hotel in August as a three-man team.  If you are a father looking to get your kids out of the house, working with honest, red-blooded Americans, and learning skills they will use throughout their life I highly recommend attending a Whiskey Hotel team ruck match and/or similar events like an AK or 2-gun match.  You will never regret spending that time with your kids, and they will never forget those times with you.