Register Now. The Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge needs little introduction. This event is not for the faint-hearted, it is designed for those who want to achieve something extraordinary and prove to themselves that they are capable of extending far beyond their perceived limits. While it may seem like a physical challenge, it is ultimately a mental game. You will hike or trail run all through the day and the night, stopping only briefly at checkpoints to replenish food and water where you will meet your support crew.
The burning quads, the chafing, the blisters, it becomes all too much at some point or another. But these are the moments where we urge you to reflect on the history of the Kokoda Campaign where Australian soldiers prevailed against insurmountable odds. Despite lacking artillery, medical supplies, and being undertrained, the men of the 39th Battalion and other militia prevailed against the Japanese who posed an imminent threat to Australian territory.
The reason they succeeded comes down to the four values of the Kokoda Spirit; courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice. We have been running life-changing youth programs that mentor local kids using these very values for 20 years. Our programs range from helping kids stay out of the juvenile justice system, to alleviating the digital dependencies that kids have developed with technology.
All of these programs are run free of charge thanks to the funds raised from The Kokoda Challenge events. The Kokoda Challenge is not a personal conquest, it is much more about the wider community, your team, supporting future generations and ensuring the legacy of our Aussie Diggers lives on. Our mission is to not only provide you with a life-changing experience, but also for your team to walk away with a deeper understanding of the Kokoda Campaign and what our diggers endured.
The 30km course will be back in in addition to a 48km distance for those who are working their way up to the big 96km. All distances will take place in the Gold Coast Hinterland with all courses finishing at Nerang Velodrome. The most challenging and rewarding experience that I have ever undertaken. I had an incredible journey with my team. There was so much teamwork and mateship on the track that inspired me and pushed me across the finish line.
