2009 Kokoda Challenge
When is it?
The 5th Annual Kokoda Challenge will be held on the weekend of July 18th - 19th, 2009. Registration for the event will open on February 1st 2009 via this website.
The Kokoda Challenge commences at the Village Green in Mudgeeraba, and follows selected fire trails and paths through Mudgeeraba, Austinville, Springbrook, Numbin Valley, Beechmont and Clagiraba to reach the finish line in the Nerang Velodrome on Hope Street.
What are the rules?
To compete in the Kokoda Challenge you must be 18 years or over, unless prior approval is sought from the organisers. This is not a relay event - all 4 teams members must advance through the check points together to the finish line. The 4 team members who start the event MUST be the SAME 4 team members who FINISH the event and no more or less than 4 people per team is permitted.
A team member may withdraw during the event at any of the checkpoints. The remaining team members can continue to complete the Challenge, however, the team wil not be eligible for the final event rankings.
How does it work?
The Kokoda Challenge is NOT a navigational exercise - the course if clearly marked out and signposted on the weekend of the event.
Along the route each team will advance through 14 manned checkpoints; every checkpoint will have officials and water and toilet facilities are available at selected checkpoints.
It is recommended that each team have its own support crew who will have access to their team (s) at 5 major checkpoints along the route.
Sleeping and rest breaks of over 1 hour are not recommended as this can allow for cramping and tiredness to set in and reduce your chance of successfully completing the event.
The Kokoda Challenge requires an appropriate and committed training program. Much of the trek covers difficult terrain (fire trails,etc) and you will be in open country for many hours. It is recommended that you plan and train for the event well in advance.
How much does it cost?
Each team is required to pay $300 non refundable registration fee and a further $800 (minimum) fund raising contribution which is fully tax deductible.
Any team registration that occurs after 30th June, 2009 will attract an additional $100 late entry fee.
Every team is encouraged to obtain sponsorship and donations above the minimum contribution.
Once registered you are given access to the tools which will help you raise money effectively and quickly. You will be able to keep track of your teams progress tally and compare it against other teams registered to compete.
Where does the money go?
Funds raised contribute to the Kokoda Challenge Youth Program (KCYP).
The KCYP is program that has been developed to help young Australians who are at a crossroad and require an opportunity to realise their full potential.
It is a 12 month expriential learning program. The first 20 weeks consist of weekly training activities and camps which develop physical fitness and prepare participants for the Challenge of a lifetime - walking the actual Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea.
This life changing experience is followed by a further 6 months of community support activities where the young people volunteer their time towards local not for profit organisation and events.
The KCYP is about providing the opportunity for young people to learn the skills and qualities that matter in life; including discipline, tolerance, self worth, team work, purpose and leadership.
The program uses the Spirit of Kokoda to teach the younger generation the value of ENDURANCE, COURAGE, SACRIFICE and MATESHIP.
More Information
Upon registration each team will have access to comprehensive training information and schedules which include map routes - you can register after February 1, 2009.
