The Tactical Games with Nick Palacios and Nick Thayer | The Conquer Cast Ep 013

In this episode of The Conquer Cast, Trevor Farnes sits down with Nick Palacios and Nick Thayer from The Tactical Games, an elite competition that blends fitness, firearms proficiency, and mental endurance. The two Nicks share how they became involved in The Tactical Games, the community-driven culture that defines their events, and how pushing limits creates resilience—both physically and mentally.

If you’ve ever wanted to test your strength, shooting, and strategy, or if you’re just looking for inspiration to push past your limits, this episode is a must-listen.

The Origins of The Tactical Games

Unlike traditional fitness competitions or shooting matches, The Tactical Games was created to bridge the gap between fitness and firearms—offering an ultimate test of strength, endurance, and marksmanship under stress.

🛠 How it all started:

Originally founded by a Special Forces veteran, the competition quickly evolved.
Nick Thayer, now the owner of The Tactical Games, started as a competitor and worked his way into a leadership role before purchasing the company in 2023.
Nick Palacios was introduced to the games through his passion for archery and fitness, later joining the team to help grow the sport.

🚀 “The community and culture of The Tactical Games is what makes it special. People don’t just compete—they lift each other up, push past their limits, and embrace the grind.”

What Are The Tactical Games?

The Tactical Games is a hybrid fitness and firearms competition, blending elements of:

🏋 CrossFit-style fitness challenges
🔫 Precision shooting with rifles & pistols
🏃 Endurance events like weighted rucks, obstacle courses, and sprints

Unlike other shooting competitions, The Tactical Games adds stress and fatigue, forcing competitors to perform under extreme conditions.

💥 “You can be a great shooter, but can you shoot well after running a 7-mile ruck with 70 pounds on your back? That’s what makes The Tactical Games different.”

The Community: Strength in Brotherhood

The Tactical Games isn’t just about competition—it’s about building a culture of resilience, support, and camaraderie.

🔥 Competitors push each other to be better—if someone’s gear breaks, another competitor will lend them a rifle, vest, or equipment.
🔥 The events attract law enforcement, military personnel, doctors, and civilians alike, proving that anyone can rise to the challenge.
🔥 The sport has transformed lives, with competitors losing 100+ pounds, overcoming personal struggles, and finding purpose in the challenge.

🌍 “We’re not just a competition. We’re a movement. The Tactical Games pushes people to be their best, and the community is there to support them every step of the way.”

How to Get Started

Interested in joining The Tactical Games? Here’s what you need to know:

🔹 Divisions – Open to ALL fitness levels, from beginner to elite.
🔹 Challenges – Competitors face a mix of fitness, shooting, and endurance events.
🔹 No Experience? No Problem. The Tactical Games welcomes newcomers who want to test themselves in a grueling but rewarding environment.

💪 “If you’re willing to put in the work, we’ll welcome you with open arms. You don’t have to be elite—you just have to be committed.”