Are you up for the Kokoda Challenge?

Papua New Guinea, 1942, untrained and untested troops from the 39th Militia were deployed to PNG to assist in building an airstrip. However, they were soon forced into battle with highly trained Japanese troops, outnumbered 10 to 1 in unimaginable conditions along the Kokoda Track.

Against all odds, and with little artillery and medical supplies, these men defeated Japanese forces after a series of short but critical engagements. The Kokoda Campaign was said to be the most significant battle fought by Australians during World War II.

It was this very story that inspired Vietnam veteran Doug Henderson and his wife Anna to create the Kokoda Youth Foundation. Firstly, to share the incredible story of these men who fought along the Kokoda Track and secondly to help young Australians find direction and purpose in their lives.

The Kokoda Challenge is 96km (the length of the Kokoda Track in PNG) and participants must complete the course in under 39 hours (to honour the 39th Battalion who fought along the Kokoda Track).

The Kokoda Challenge is Australia’s toughest team endurance event, it is a mental and physical test like no other with the main objective being to cross the finish line together as a team.
You will traverse through the beautiful Australian landscape around Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne on tracks that are renowned for their beauty, challenging inclines, and environmental diversity.

In the lead up to event day, you will raise funds for the Kokoda Challenge Youth Programs which are experiential programs that engage and inspire Aussie kids to reach their full potential.

Events are held in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne. If you’re not up for the full 96km course then competitors have the option to tackle the 15, 30 or 48km course. The event, the youth programs and everything within the Kokoda Youth Foundation are based on the values of the Kokoda Spirit; Courage, Endurance, Mateship, Sacrifice.

More info click here.