CPHS faculty member takes on Spartan Race Challenge

What started as a goal to improve fitness became an experience focused on perseverance, connection and stepping outside of comfort zones for Dr. Stephen P. Holly, professor of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences in the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences.

Earlier this month, Holly participated in the Spartan obstacle course 5K race held at McCormick Farms in Spring Lake, North Carolina, alongside his oldest son, Stephen, incoming transfer student Connor Keen, and four other teammates. Drawing thousands of participants, the endurance event challenged racers through a combination of running, climbing, strength obstacles and mental resilience over a course that took participants more than 90 minutes to complete.

Held May 2 in cool 55-degree temperatures, the race brought an extra layer of difficulty with cold, windy and rainy conditions. For Holly, one moment stood out as the greatest challenge.

"The hardest part was getting completely submerged in cold water on a cold, windy and rainy day," he said. "That tested both the physical and mental side of the event."

Preparation for race day began months earlier. Beginning shortly after Thanksgiving in 2025, the group of three along with other participants committed to training together every Saturday morning from approximately 7:30 to 10 a.m. for more than five months. Their routine also included individual workouts throughout the week and focused on building strength, endurance and flexibility.

The motivation behind taking on the Spartan challenge extended beyond crossing the finish line.

"I wanted to get in better shape and participate in something difficult and character building with my oldest son," Holly said. "Training and competing together made the experience even more meaningful."

The event's supportive atmosphere left a lasting impression. Surrounded by an encouraging community of competitors, participants pushed one another through the demanding course and celebrated accomplishments together.

Reflecting on the experience, Holly said the lessons learned through training and race day connect closely with the values he hopes to model for students at Campbell.

"I'm proud that we pushed our limits," he said. "It was a very worthwhile experience, a great team building opportunity and the overall vibe was incredibly positive. I'm already planning to do it again next year."

Holly said the discipline, preparation and resilience required to complete the race are qualities that also translate into the classroom and healthcare professions. As a professor, he hopes experiences like this help reinforce the importance of setting goals, embracing challenges and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. He added that stepping outside of his comfort zone allows him to better encourage students to do the same as they prepare for demanding careers in healthcare.

For Holly, the race served as a reminder that meaningful growth often comes from difficult experiences and that perseverance, teamwork and determination are values that extend far beyond the finish line.