Those who were brave enough arrived at Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

Due to popular demand, organizers made this year's course longer and muddier than years before.

6:30 in the morning, nearly 2,000 runners are gathered at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Many come in their grimiest gear, others dress up for the occasion.

With five-and-a-half miles through mud, sand and water, the Swamp Romp is a challenging course. Pants and shoes are taped up so they stay on during the run. Floaties are optional.

The race begins at seven. Teams of six take off in waves. Once they turn the corner, it's time to get down and dirty.

"Horribly muddy, but lots of fun. Someone caught a fish out there," said KGMB9's Grace Lee.

Four miles in and several mud pits later, it's off to the beach for a hard run in the sand.

Almost everyone detours to the water for a quick bath, but they don't stay clean for long.

Fifth mile in and it's time to swim. The low crawl has everyone covered in sludge.

It doesn't matter what you were wearing before. In the end everyone sports the same uniform.

After the finish line it's time to hit the showers. Layers of mud and grime are blasted away by fire truck hoses.

Despite the dirt, the challenge and the pain, everyone agrees it's worth it.

"It's great, it's a great way to start the day. We got down, we got dirty, had a good time doing it," said Leah Lehmkuhl.

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