We know Tyler Chappell as the loveable PAL and talented athlete but a lot of people don’t know the obstacle racing Tyler.

Tyler first got into obstacle racing his freshmen year through his trainer Yancy Culp, owner of the popular fitness organization Sculpture Fitness. Culp encouraged Chappell to do the Warrior Dash with him, a popular obstacle course race. Ever since then, Chappell has been hooked.

Five days a week, Chappell gets up at 5:00 a.m. to run or lift weights. Then he trains in the afternoon, which could include ropes, or tire flips followed by a mile-long run. For Chappell, all the training is worthwhile.

“I like just overall competing and getting to meet people from around the world,” Chappell said.

Chappell has won several Spartan Race metals, a Gut Check metal, and a Warrior Dash Metal, along with other awards.

“The feeling you get when you see your name at the top of the list; I love that feeling,” Chappell said.

Chappell also says that obstacle course racing has helped him with struggles in his personal life.

“The idea behind it is it’s supposed to be like real life: you get to an obstacle and you get past it. Like ‘I just ran a 12-hour race, I can get through this,’” Chappell said.

Along with obstacle racing, the kids Chappell has worked with through PALs and the Miracle League have shaped his character.

“They made me more understanding to what other people are going through,” Chappell said.

After high school Chappell hopes to play baseball or run track at college, study to be a physical therapist and of course, keep racing.