Since arriving in Flagstaff last week, the team has trained in the snow and completed hikes to the Grand Canyon and Humphreys Peak.
Brock McLean has echoed the sentiments of his teammates, saying it’s the hardest training they have ever endured.
“We walked the Canyon last year; we walked down it, we walked up it – but this year we walked down and then ran up for most of it and that took me to some areas I’ve never been to before,” McLean said.
From all accounts, Buttifant has tested the players both physically and mentally.
But the players have managed to push through exhaustion and pain barriers to get behind each other with plenty of support and encouragement.
It was needed just a day later when another challenge was thrown the team’s way: Humphreys Peak – the highest point in Arizona.
McLean says the hike up the mountain was equally as gruelling as their trek through the Grand Canyon.
“We had a walk in the snow first, about 12 or 13 kilometres, and then walked up Mount Humphries,” McLean said.
“I think for the last kilometre the snow was waist deep, so we ended up crawling in the snow like we were climbing a ladder.
“So two very tough days, but ultimately it’s going to hold us in good stead.”
