Jacob Russell Foulke

Where are you from?

I am from New Castle Indiana, which is a small town about 1 hour east of Indianapolis.

How did you get into rucking?

My wife and I were in a rough depression during the baby trenches of my only child. One of my friends was training for a NFM and offered to let me join. Shortly after that event I found Rucking Tough when it was brand new. I now try and attend every event that is listed.

Why do you ruck?

I realized that rucking helps to keep me in shape, give me time to pray, gives me a day/event to focus me into keeping myself around, and gives me confidence to speak about my military accomplishments which can be very hard.

Favorite ruck so far?

As far as events, I would say the first statehood Marche I completed. However that is going to be dwarfed by the Czech death march I am about to complete at 42 KMs. I will probably work this death march every year until I complete the top distance.

What has been the hardest lesson you’ve learned under a ruck?

I am still learning this lesson - being in a small town it can be awkward to wear a uniform out and about. I came to the realization that nobody cares that I am in my uniform and it probably gets some random kid excited when they drive by.

What is your go-to ruck setup?

Just a normal issue large ruck, Belleville boots, 35lbs of clothes and rain gear, some powerbeats pro headphones, and a positive attitude.

What is your advice for new ruckers?

Enjoy the nature around you! Stop and look at the birds, or the the river, or a few cars that look cool. Do not get hyper focused on the distance, time left, pain, or how much you need to hit the restroom.

What event are you training for next?

I personally have a goal to complete my first mini marathon and NFM this year. I might not get either, but that is the goal.

What is a fun fact about you outside of rucking?

I could talk about woodworking, challenge coin collecting, or getting to work with the MSTAG chair. I will skip all that and say that I have been blessed to know Jesus as my savior and you can know him to. I tried to be a chaplain, but my father-in-law who is a pastor talked me out of it. (He was really worried I would not get a weapon while on a deployment if I was a chaplain.)

My very first leadership role was being NCOIC as a SPC for one of the first Covid-19 antibody studies in the United States.

 
JACOB RUSSELL FOULKE - INDIANA, USA