First Tactical Fitness Event: Community Spotlight With Grover

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

My name is Grover. I served in the United States Army for 17 years. I completed 3 combat deployments to Iraq. I was medically retired in 2021. When I got out, I moved my family to Florida. I have been working as a Construction Manager, for a home builder in Bradenton.

How did you first hear about tactical fitness type events?

My buddy that I work with, told me about the Patriot Games, on a golf outing. I had never heard of it before that golf outing. I did some research and he said I should volunteer at an event to see what it is all about. I volunteered at Immokalee in June of 2025. That competition was something that I had never witnessed before. I was hooked instantly. The volunteers were amazing, the competitors were amazing, and the atmosphere was incredible. I was amazed by the whole day and judging one of the lanes. I knew instantly, that I wanted to be apart of it.

What was your first Tactical Fitness event?

My first event was The Patriot Games, in Homestead, Florida. That competition was on January 31st of 2026. I had some doubts if I was going to hit any targets. I did not shoot a rifle since I left the Army. I had to borrow a rifle from my buddy, Brian. He helped me through the whole time leading up to it. I was a bit nervous before the first lane.

Did you have any doubts or concerns going into your first event? What were they?

I was a bit nervous before the first lane. After the first lane, I knew that I had this. I had been training for months leading up to it, my physical training was right there, but the shooting is where I struggled. Only because I did not shoot as much as I should have.

How did you prepare leading up to the competition? (training, gear, mindset, etc.)

I trained for months leading up to the event. I worked out at Burn Bootcamp in Sarasota, I went to Crunch Fitness often, I did a ton of rucks with my vest and a ruck sack, ran a lot, and shot some. I only went to the range probably 3 times.

What was your first impression when you arrived at the event and saw everything in person?

When I first arrived I was nervous and very excited. I took it all in. There were competitors everywhere, getting ready for the lanes. There were family members, cheering on their competitors. It was an amazing atmosphere.

How did it feel completing your first event?

I felt accomplished after that. All the hours of training really paid off. I felt proud that I found this community. It was one of the greatest things I have ever done.

What part of the event challenged you the most, and why? (physical and/or mental)

The whole competition was challenging. The workouts and the shooting was challenging. My body was extremely tired after the day was done. The shooting was challenging, just do the fact that I did not train as much as I should have in.

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about signing up for their first event?

If you are thinking about doing tactical events, just say fuck it and do it. It will change your life. It leads to a healthier lifestyle. It leads to finding new friends. It gives you something to train for and something to look forward to. I do not regret getting into this. I will be doing these events, for as long as I can. Just do it, you will have no regrets.

If you would love to share your beginning with Tactical Fitness Events, you can comment or reach out via email to contact@tacticalfitnessevents.com