Group Obstacle Race is the fourth task conducted on day 1 of GTO tasks. There is a START LINE and a FINISH LINE on the ground. In between these two lines are six obstacles placed in series which the group has to cross along with the load which resembles a rolled up tent and because it looks like a snake. This task is also referred to as the SNAKE RACE.
The obstacles are divided into 4 channels marked A, B, C and D. You will be told to follow a particular channel throughout the task. Each group is asked to choose a war cry like “VANDE MATARAM”, “BHARAT MATA KI JAI”, “HAR HAR MAHADEV” etc. The group must shout the war cry loudly while negotiating the obstacles.
Till now you have been working within your group only. In Group Obstacle Race (GOR) 3-4 groups are made to compete against each other. The coordination, cooperation and team spirit of the candidates are checked along with other qualities like- Courage, Stamina, Self confidence, Power of Expression, Social Adaptability, Sense of responsibility towards the group and Liveliness.
PROCEDURE:
In Group Obstacle Race (GOR), 3-4 groups are made to compete against each other. The senior most GTO shows the obstacles to all the groups, explaining the rules and nature of the task.
Then the groups are asked to stand behind the START LINE and the load (snake) is given to them.
The whistle from the GTO marks the commencement of the race. The group which reaches the FINISH LINE first after crossing all the obstacles is declared the winner.
RULES:
⦁ Once the race has started, the snake should not touch the ground before crossing the FINISH LINE.
⦁ All candidates of the group must hold the snake while running between the obstacles and at least 3 candidates are required to hold the snake while negotiating the obstacles.
⦁ While negotiating the obstacles, the snake should take the same course as the candidates and should not be passed from sides.
⦁ Group rule of PGT is applicable. The whole group must move together.
⦁ Some portions of the obstacles are painted red. Red portions are out of bound and cannot be touched.
⦁ In case any rule is violated, the GTO will impose penalties. The penalties are of two types-
⦁ Time penalty- The GTO will ask the group to reverse count from 10 to 1.
⦁ He may ask the group to repeat the particular Obstacle.
OVERVIEW OF GROUP OBSTACLE RACE (GOR)
OBSTACLES IN GOR:
OBSTACLE 1: SINGLE RAMP
This Obstacle is called the SINGLE RAMP. The group is required to climb and jump along with the snake.
OBSTACLE 2: FIGURE OF EIGHT
This Obstacle is called FIGURE OF EIGHT. Candidates are required to make a figure of 8 through this Obstacle. Generally during the briefing, the GTO calls a candidate to demonstrate how to perform this task. Pay attention during the demonstration and later do it accordingly.
OBSTACLE 3: SPIDER WEB
This obstacle is called the SPIDER WEB. You have to climb the net from one side and climb down to the other side of it along with the snake.
OBSTACLE 4: DOUBLE WALL
This Obstacle is called the DOUBLE WALL. There are two walls connected by a wooden log. Candidates are required to climb the first wall, walk on the wooden log to reach the second wall and jump down.
OBSTACLE 5: SINGLE WALL
This Obstacle is called SINGLE WALL. The candidates have to climb from one side and jump down to the other side.
OBSTACLE 6: SINGLE RAMP AND SLIDE
This Obstacle is called SINGLE RAMP AND SLIDE. Candidates are required to climb up the ramp and then slide down to the other side.
HOW TO APPROACH THE GROUP OBSTACLE RACE (GOR):
⦁ Listen carefully to the rules instructed by the GTO.
⦁ Pay attention during the demonstration and complete the task accordingly, adhering strictly to the rules.
⦁ Take the initiative, lead the group, help others to cross the obstacles.
⦁ Make sure each candidate of the group holds the snake while running between the obstacles and at least three holds it while negotiating the obstacles.
⦁ If you are fit and slim take the lead, climb the walls and pull other candidates and help them climb the walls. Remember it is a ‘Group Task’, you will win only when your entire Group reaches the FINISH LINE.
Hence, it is important that you all move together as a group. Help each other so that your group finishes first.
⦁ Keep cheering your group by shouting the war cry. Choose a short war cry so that while shouting, it doesn’t consume a lot of energy.
⦁ Make sure you don’t touch the red portion or violate any rule. In case a rule is violated repeat that task immediately.
⦁ Don’t try to gain the attention of the GTO by looking at him.
Group Obstacle Race (GOR) is the most interesting task, including lots of fun. Be energetic, lively and enjoy the task. Help your group members wherever they need. Remember to finish first your group should be cooperative and function as a single unit.
Be confident, helpful and cooperative.
Believe in your dreams. Work hard, prepare well and give your best. You will surely ace the task.
JAI HIND
