Snake Race in SSB
The Snake Race — formally called the Group Obstacle Race — is one of the most iconic and physically demanding GTO tasks in the SSB selection process. Three to four groups compete with each other while carrying a 6 to 8 feet long rolled-up tent (the "snake") over six obstacles. This task is not conducted in Air Force Boards.
Group Obstacle Race — Overview
In this task, 3–4 groups compete against each other simultaneously. The senior GTO briefs all candidates together at the start, and then the groups attempt the course one after another or in parallel:
- Each group is provided with a rolled-up tent, 6–8 feet long, called a "snake".
- The snake has to be carried by the group over six obstacles during the race.
- The objective is to complete the course as a unified team, while observing the rules.
Rules of the Snake Race
The Conducting Officer reads out the rules before the race begins. Violation of any rule may lead to penalty points or the group being asked to repeat a section. The standard rules are:
- The snake has to be carried by the entire group while running — all candidates should be holding it while running between the obstacles.
- The snake should be carried parallel to the ground.
- The snake cannot be reduced in length — for example, by rolling it up further or folding it.
- The snake cannot be kept on the ground in between the obstacles or during transit.
- While negotiating any obstacle, a minimum of three candidates must hold the snake at all times.
- The snake will follow the same path as the candidates while negotiating the obstacles — it cannot be passed from the sides or under the obstacle.
- Colour rule as in PGT (Progressive Group Task) is applicable.
- Group rule as in PGT is applicable.
Quick refresher — Colour and Group rules. In SSB GTO tasks, certain coloured surfaces and structures are designated "out of bounds" (the colour rule) and the group cannot be split during the task (the group rule). These are explained in detail in the PGT page.
Conduct of the Race
- Teams line up at the start line with their snake.
- The Conducting Officer explains the obstacles. Other officers watch silently.
- Once the start signal is given, the group must negotiate all six obstacles in sequence while observing the rules.
- Each obstacle demands coordination, cooperation and physical effort.
- Candidates learn how to negotiate, manage time, and help weaker members of the group through the course.
Typical Obstacles in the Course
Inclined ramp / zig-zag structures
If you slip, you must go back and repeat. Tests balance under load while the group manages the snake.
Figure-of-eight (Gate) obstacle
You must pass through in a specific sequence, managing traffic like a real group would. Tests leadership and group sequencing.
Wall climb (very tall — 18 to 20 feet)
Requires teamwork. Candidates must help each other to cross while keeping the snake parallel to the ground and held by at least three group members.
Smaller walls or pipes
Balance and coordination tests. The snake must be passed through following the same route as candidates.
Huge wooden structures
Often resembling village water pipes or large beams. Tests upper-body strength, group lift and group communication.
Final obstacle (varies by board)
Typically a closing-stretch challenge that tests endurance after the previous five obstacles. Group cohesion at the end is as important as at the start.
Candidates Performing the Snake Race
Photographs of cadets at our campus performing the Snake Race during SSB practice sessions:
Watch the Snake Race
Observations by the GTO
While the race is on, the GTO observes each candidate carefully. The race is a controlled environment for assessing officer-like qualities (OLQs) under physical stress. The GTO specifically looks at:
Who takes initiative?
Who helps others?
Who coordinates and motivates the group?
Who ensures the snake is carried correctly?
Even humour and group cheer — like a spontaneous "Bharat Mata Ki Jai!" — show team spirit and morale. These small moments often weigh more than physical performance.
War Cry
The GTO gives candidates the option to choose a war cry — a short, inspirational phrase used while attempting the obstacles. A good war cry energises the group, signals coordination, and helps maintain rhythm during the race.
- "Jai Hind!"
- "Bharat Mata Ki Jai!"
- Group-chosen patriotic or motivational phrase
Choose your war cry wisely — it should be short, easy to chant in unison, and patriotic.
Purpose of Group Tasks (and the Snake Race)
The GTO tasks are designed with scientific considerations to test team-building and cooperative behaviour. They follow a deliberate progression:
- Group Discussion — competition in ideas.
- Group Planning Exercise — sharing and exchanging views.
- Group Obstacle Race (Snake Race) — team cooperation under physical stress, not just individual performance.
By the time you reach the Snake Race, the GTO has already seen how you think and how you plan. Now they want to see how you act — under pressure, in a team, with a physical task that genuinely cannot be completed alone.
What the GTO Expects from Candidates
Five things the GTO consistently looks for in every candidate during the Snake Race:
- Do not violate the rules. Rule violations are noted and counted.
- Try to remain ahead as much as possible — but not at the cost of the group.
- Help your team mates — physically and verbally — at every obstacle.
- Encourage and assist others while climbing the high wall, especially weaker or shorter candidates.
- Keep the interest of the group in mind — your individual performance counts only inside group success.
Cavalier's coaching tip. The Snake Race is the GTO task most often "lost" by candidates who treat it as an individual race. Officers in uniform have to lead and protect their team. Demonstrate that quality here, and the rest follows.
Related GTO Tasks
The Snake Race is one of nine GTO tasks. Continue exploring the others: