Production
Rio Tafoya
Director of Photography
Born in the Wild
Built for Community
The Survival Games is more than an event — it’s a movement uniting adventurers, survivalists, and storytellers.
Our Story
From Campfire Idea to Community Movement
What started as a wild idea around a campfire has grown into a one-of-a-kind survival competition and TV-ready adventure. Founded by survival experts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, the Games combine primitive skills, modern grit, and the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This is where everyday people step into the wilderness and prove what they’re made of.
The Series
From Competition to the Screen
The Games aren’t just an event — they’re a story unfolding on screen. With celebrity hosts, expert instructors, and contestants from all walks of life, The Survival Games is developing into a reality series that captures the raw drama of survival.
Apply for CastingThe People Behind It
Meet the Founders
Tony Peniche
Co-Founder
Entrepreneur and brand builder who’s most at home outdoors, Tony created The Survival Games to blend hands-on skills, community, and story.
An award-winning designer, photographer, and inventor, he tests gear in the field and focuses the Games on real-world capability over polish.
Phil Robinson
Co-Founder
Operations lead and PNW native, Phil designs the challenge flow—safe, efficient, and true to the terrain—so competitors can focus on learning and execution.
Driven by self-reliance and community, he’s building a welcoming space where people rediscover practical skills and grow together.
Additional Team Members
Production, Ops & Creative across Basecamp, Event, and Production teams.
Production
Production
Chris Fischer
Videographer
Event
Dalton Dawkins
Technical Director
Community
Join the movement. Be part of the Games.
The Survival Games is a true labor of love. Volunteers make it possible—from basecamp and logistics to safety, registration, and media support. If you’re reliable, friendly, and stoked to be part of the adventure, we’d love to hear from you.