Something different for the sports curriculum?

Tue Feb 16 2010

When you're checking out the school sports schedule you don't expect to see Australia's toughest endurance event on the list. But for the crew at Cavendish Road High School in Brisbane - the Kokoda Challenge, is a popular choice for senior school students with a sense of adventure.

Last year 24 students and six teachers went bush. David Thomson, who teaches Business, was the coordinator for the school teams and can vouch for the benefits to students and teachers.

"The Kokoda Challenge is a great event for students to improve fitness and gain focus," said Mr Thomson.

"The year 12 students who participate learn to manage their time effectively and find an outlet from their studies, so it gives them the balance they need.

"It's more than just the physical aspect - as teachers we are learning new skills to keep our students motivated."

And the experts back it up. Aaron Silk, lecturer in the School of Health and Human Sciences at Southern Cross University said there were many benefits for young people who participated in physical exercise.

"Participation in such a physically demanding event as the Kokoda Challenge really forces the formation of a strong connection between mind and body, which brings with it a healthy appreciation of physical limits," said Mr Silk.

"It's impossible to complete the training and the Challenge itself without learning a great deal in regards to the optimal nutrition and hydration needed to fuel and sustain the body.

"I am certain that the combination of these two lessons will serve these young warriors well for many years to come."

Registration is now open for high school teams in the 2010 Kokoda Challenge. Choose between the 96km Stan Bisset Cup or the 49km Jim Stillman Cup.

Team numbers are limited, only 50 team places available for the Stan Bisset Cup, so be quick to secure your position!

For more information click here.