Well, I just completed the 1-14 course and suffice to say it was a real gut check in certain areas. Unfortunately, I was one of a few individuals that were put on a board, however, I did not get the nod. For those of you that made it through congratulations and it was well deserved. I hope you put your heart and soul into it because I know 30 or so other candidates that would love to be in your shoes.
From what I've heard from the 1st Phase instructors, 1-14 had the most physically capable individuals they've seen. Supposedly, our bottom 10% were the average of all the other courses they have had, so take that for what it is. Moreover, 137 candidates showed up, 91 made it to 2nd Phase, 75+ completed 2nd Phase, and 40 were selected. The weather really created some issues for our training days and unfortunately missed a couple pool sessions and the 10 mile ruck because of it. Learn to take care of your body, your feet, and start using a lacrosse ball or foam roller...ITS MONEY.
**RANT** For those of you in the process of submitting your package or getting ready to go to A&S. Do not be the scumbag that cannot complete at LEAST a 1st Class PFT (there were a couple during the initial). They are notorious for how the count pull-ups, if you LITERALLY are not doing perfect pull-ups..get cranking on those. I was fortunate enough not to have any problems with those due to my T-Rex like arms. If you cannot swim in cammies, please PLEASE get help. Do not be the idiot that shows up during the initial qual day and flops, walks, and or drowns in the pool. That is an embarassment to yourself, your unit, and the Marine Corps. I wholeheartedly cannot stand individuals who show up and simply cannot meet the minimum requirements. You are wasting your time, the instructors time, and precious money that could've been spent elsewhere. More importantly, bring a PAIR and a couple spares because you'll need them.
If you have any further questions about 1st Phase, I'll gladly share them, but 2nd Phase is a whole different issue. Good luck and, "ALL IT TAKES, IS ALL YOU'VE GOT."