By Marisa Dawson, Graphic provided by Tier 1
A new fitness event is coming to Bennington this summer, offering participants an opportunity to test their endurance, challenge themselves, and connect with others in the community.
The inaugural Tier 1 Tactical Phit Challenge, presented by Tier 1 Human Performance, is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Flanagan Lake in Bennington. The free event is organized by Bennington resident David Greene and is designed to be accessible to participants of varying fitness levels while incorporating elements commonly found in tactical and functional fitness training.
According to event organizers, participants will complete two phases of challenges. The first phase consists of a 5K run, with 50 air squats performed at every mile marker. The second phase is a 5K ruck, during which participants will carry a weighted pack ranging from 20 to 45 pounds and complete 50 push-ups at each mile.
For those looking for an additional challenge, organizers are offering an optional “Final Grind” following the 10K event. The add-on includes a 1,000-meter SkiErg, 50 sandbag-over-shoulder repetitions using either a 100- or 150-pound sandbag, and 30 calories on an Echo Bike.
The event includes male and female divisions, along with scaled and RX categories. Organizers have also created a beginner-friendly option that allows participants to compete using bodyweight movements without a weighted ruck.
Greene said the challenge is intended to be about much more than physical fitness. “I hope participants walk away with a sense of accomplishment, confidence, and connection,” Greene said. “The Tier 1 Tactical Phit Challenge is about more than fitness—it’s about challenging yourself, stepping outside your comfort zone, and being part of a community that supports one another. Whether someone is an experienced athlete or just getting started, there’s value in showing up and giving their best effort.”
Greene believes events like the Tactical Phit Challenge play an important role in a growing community such as Bennington. “Events like this bring people together around health, fitness, and personal growth,” he said. “They provide an opportunity for community members to set goals, stay active, and build relationships with others who share similar interests.”
He added that promoting active lifestyles benefits both physical and mental well-being while helping strengthen community connections.
For those who may be hesitant to register, Greene emphasized that the event is designed to be welcoming and approachable. “I would tell them not to let fear or self-doubt hold them back,” Greene said. “This event is designed for all fitness levels. You don’t need to be the fastest or strongest person there. The goal is to challenge yourself, have fun, and be part of something positive. Most people leave wishing they had signed up sooner.”
Event-day activities begin with check-in at 7:30 a.m., followed by a participant briefing and warm-up at 8 a.m. The challenge begins at 8:15 a.m., with organizers anticipating a finish and recovery social between 10 and 10:30 a.m.
Participants are encouraged to bring a weighted ruck if they plan to complete the ruck portion, along with water, hydration supplies, and a positive attitude.
While this year marks the event’s debut, Greene hopes it will become a long-standing tradition in the area.
“Absolutely,” Greene said when asked whether he hopes the challenge becomes an annual event. “Our goal is to make the Tier 1 Tactical Phit Challenge an annual event that the community looks forward to every year. We want to continue creating opportunities that bring people together, promote fitness, and support healthy lifestyles throughout Bennington and the surrounding areas.”
Looking ahead, Greene said his goal is to create an experience that participants remember not only for the physical challenge, but also for the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie it provides. “Our primary goal is to create a fun, challenging, and welcoming experience for everyone involved,” Greene said. “We want participants to push themselves, connect with others in the community, and leave feeling proud of what they accomplished.”
Registration for the free event is currently open, though organizers note that participation spots are limited: www.tier1tacticalfitness.com/phit-challenge
