Steyr Arms Asks: Could an American be the Toughest Hunter in the Alps?

So by “sawing” they mean actual sawing, not my impressive snoring capabilities. Got it.

Who’s the toughest hunter in the Alps? That’s a question Steyr Arms set out to answer in 2018 with the Steyr Challenge, a contest that includes mountain running, abseiling, and (of course) shooting for accuracy. This year, they seem to have realized that they forgot to invite the Americans. That’s why this year the Steyr Challenge is open to those who hail from U.S. shores. Dubbed the 2nd Annual Steyr Challenge, it’s set to be held on Oct. 5 in Seetaler Alpe in Austria. A maximum of 25 teams from across the globe will all be competing for the title of “Toughest Hunters in the Alps.”

This competition is a combination of a more than 7-kilometer mountain run with about 300 meters of elevation gain, different shooting disciplines, abseiling and sawing. Each four-person team, with one alternate, will need to train together, shoot together, and strive for the ultimate goal of winning together.

If you think you have a team that has what it takes to take on the course and the other competitors, send an audition video of your team explaining why you wish to compete in the challenge before the registration closes on July 15. Click here to register. There is no cost to submit. The $250 registration fee is only charged to teams that are selected and will be participating in the challenge. Teams will be responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Austria. Lodging and food are covered upon arrival.

Teams will need to arrive on Oct. 4 for an overview of the course and preliminary training on the rifles that will be used in the competition. The Steyr Challenge will take place on Oct. 5, followed by an awards ceremony.