Day Three of Color War was incredible, with the Blue Knights and Red Dragons battling it out in a full day of intense competition. With more points up for grabs today than any other day of Color War, every event carried high stakes—and both teams brought their absolute best. The morning was full of division competitions throughout camp, and the afteroon held one of Color War’s oldest traditions: Mountain Relay.

This legendary race, dating back to 1976, features 58 different challenges and involves over 70 campers from each team. Every participant must complete their obstacle while carrying a baton—yes, the very same batons that have been passed down through generations since 1976.

The relay course is as creative as it is grueling: from piggybacking a junior camper uphill from the barn to the gate, to draining two 3-pointers and two lay-ups at the slab, saying the alphabet backwards, carrying cinder blocks from archery to the lake, kayaking around Silver Lake island, blobbing a teammate, speed-walking, tossing frisbees, mini-rope burning, and much more. Every leg counts—and one small slip can change the outcome entirely.

From the moment the starting whistle blew, it was clear we were witnessing two teams, equally balanced in talent, determination and loyalty. Both teams matched each other step for step through the first 43 legs of the race. But it was at leg 44—the frisbee toss—that the tides began to turn. Blue nailed it on the first try, while Red stumbled. Again and again, they dropped the frisbee at 4, then 7, then 9… struggling for over 10 minutes to complete the 12-catch sequence. The pressure was high and nerves seemed to be getting the best of the team. The Red Dragon General stayed right there the entire time encouraging these boys and telling them how proud she was of their courage and willingness to not give up. Meanwhile, the Blue Knights pushed ahead, reaching the 54th leg: mini-rope burning.

Just as Blue began their fire, screams were overwhelming at the field—“12! Pass the baton and GO!” The Red Dragons had finally completed the frisbee toss. Hugs, cheers and a new hope for victory rose as their two campers, who nearly gave up, were congratulated by the Green Giant for their grit and determination.

Blue moved quickly and efficiently through the following legs of the relay, until both teams found themselves where they started, side by side, at mini-rope burning—an infamously difficult task that has turned the tide of many Mountain Relays. Despite the pressure and over 30 minutes of trying, something magical happened. Amid the smoke, frustration, and flying ash, the two competitors from opposing teams found encouragement, support, and even laughter from each other.

Red’s rope broke first, and they took off running. Minutes later, Blue’s rope snapped too, and they weren’t far behind. In the end, it was the Red Dragons who rang the bell first and claimed the win, with the Blue Knights just four minutes behind.

Day Three has a recurring battle with fire. After our EP Water Wars tonight, we walked to the field to witness the iconic Rope Burning. We have been fortunate to have sunny weather all week, so the wood teams collected today was dry and ready to burn. While both teams were super prepared with plenty of wood for the fire, the Red Dragons struggled to get their fire lit. This event is silent until at least one team has a significant fire started, and the Blue Knights fire was strong. The Red Dragons had a small burn going when the spotlights went off, and the cheers started to erupt from the crowd. “Blue burns hotter than Red,” the Knights were chanting. While the Dragons yelled “Fire it up BIG RED, fire it up!” Suddenly, Red’s fire was gone. With urgency, the Dragons scrambled to relight their fire, striking match after match, trying to close the gap. But Blue’s blaze was relentless. It roared higher, hotter, and brighter with each passing second. And then—with a snap—the rope broke. The Blue Knights erupted in celebration as the Rope Burning champions of 2025.

I have to say, my writing doesn’t do this day justice. It was INTENSE today on Old Forge- filled with fierce competition, unforgettable moments, and powerful displays of perseverance and sportsmanship. Day Three was exhausting, exhilarating, and a true celebration of teamwork - everything Color War stands for.