Women don't beat around the bush

Thu Feb 18 2010

Australia's annual Kokoda Challenge is one of few endurance events in which many women not only give men a run for their money, but often pip them to the post at the end.

Not a bad feat for an event that spans 96 kilometres, 39 hours and includes 5,000 metres of total elevation through the Gold Coast Hinterland.

Each year the challenge attracts an equal number of male and female participants who make up both mixed and same sex teams. In the 2009 Kokoda Challenge it was an all ladies team - the off road 'Chinwaggers' who claimed the coveted race title.

Off Road Chinwagers

However, for most of the women who participate in the challenge the goal is just to finish. Kelly Flynn, had the opportunity to join an all women’s team and despite having never heard of the event before, her family's long history in the military compelled her to be involved.

"I come from a long line of male and female members of the family who have fought for their country," said Kelly.

"As a team, we wanted to learn to experience and appreciate more, the sacrifices made by the men and women of the forces both past and present."

"After looking at the Kokoda Challenge Website, I knew it was something I wanted to do.

"There was a part of me doing it for myself as a personal challenge, but mostly, it was the opportunity to take part in an event that was team based that could really make a difference to the youth of today."

Kelly's team started training four months prior to the event by walking in the bush or on the beach. But it wasn't until they completed the mini Kokoda Challenge in June that they had a clearer idea of what they were in for.

"We started our training once a week as a team, in addition to doing our own training 2 – 3 times a week," said Kelly.

"Group training was always done by way of a walk or hike. When time, children or injury did not allow us on the Kokoda track, we would head to the beach, which was more pram friendly."

The Kokoda Challenge is renowned for stripping back the outer layers of personalities, which in some cases can create a stronger bond between people and at other times put strain on friendships.

"Whilst most of the friendships survived and actually thrived by the event, there were some friendship casualties," said Kelly.

All ladies team - Brianys Beauties

According to Kelly there were highs and lows along the way, including listening with anticipation to the Last Post at the beginning of the event and bursting into tears in the middle of the night. But in the end it was all worthwhile.

"Crossing the line was amazing. Any hint of exhaustion had gone. I don't think I have ever been more proud of anything I had ever done. I felt like I had won, and in my eyes I did. I had won over pain and fatigue but at the same time there was a little bit of sadness that it was over."