by: Deion Clifton
Every year, one HAC member gathers friends, family, and other club members to take part in an increasingly popular challenge that encourages participants to push through pain and exhaustion, just as countless soldiers have done during their service. Anthony Cuffe started taking the challenge here at HAC seven years ago. At the time, there were only two participants, Anthony and one other; this year, there were 12.
The Murph Challenge, a tribute to Lt. Michael P. Murphy, is not just a physical test but also a powerful means of support. It serves as the official annual fundraiser for the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation, presented by Forged®, an apparel company with roots in the armed forces that donates proceeds to military causes. Since its inception in 2014, this challenge has been instrumental in helping Forged® award over $2,000,000 in scholarships. Participation directly contributes to this noble cause, supporting veterans, military-oriented youth development programs, high school students, and more.
The Challenge
The challenge is intended to be completed while wearing a 20lb weight vest. It includes:
- A 1-mile run
- 100 pull-ups
- 200 push-ups
- 300 squats
- And another 1-mile run
Anthony has no intention of slowing down this annual challenge and wants to grow it to become as big as possible. Next year he hopes to double the number of participants.
From left to right: Anthony Alfieri, Anthony Alfieri Jr., Lou Ziccarelli, Jeff Bollinger, Jim Besten, Bruno Saggese, Anthony Cuffe, Jason Sheehan, Jonathan Gallagher, Mark Fox
Missing: Eric Cooley, Jose Villagomez
Why did you take the Murph Challenge?
“It’s neat to see all the camaraderie. People will just be making fun of each other, trying to do what we do. But for the last six weeks, this is really all we’ve been talking about. So, it’s just a bit of good fun. And it’s for a good cause!”
– Anthony Cuffe
“I think for me, it’s just doing something different. I’ve never done it before, and it sounded fun. It’s definitely for a good cause – buying the t-shirt is like a donation to the foundation.”
– Jonathan Gallagher
“I’m supporting a great cause on a great weekend – Memorial Day weekend – honoring the fallen.”
– Jeff Bollinger
“My father-in-law has been in the army for over 40 years. I respect the man, and we’re here because of him, because of the freedom, and it’s just a great cause.”
– Bruno Saggese
