What to Expect

The Kokoda Challenge is a tough event. 

Don Wallace who is recognised as Australia leading ultra athlete and who amongst many accomplishments has held the record for the ‘Six foot track’ for the past ten years and competed in five Comrades. Don as leader of ‘Team Nike Hammer’, the 2006, 2007 and 2008 first to the line winning team, describes the Kokoda Challenge as ‘not only the toughest event in Australia, but the best.’

          
2010 Team - The Cootha Hillbillies

Not everyone of course is surrounded by a team of champion ultra runners and it is significant that two teams of secondary school students, well led and well prepared, were able to complete the course in 30 hours 49 minutes.  

This really highlights the need for training and preparation and support to complete the Kokoda Challenge. So whilst the Challenge is demanding, tough and competitive, it is, with the appropriate commitment and training very achievable.                           

The Challenge trek covers difficult terrain and in general terms follows fire trails and bush walking tracks there is approximate five thousand meters up and down throughout the length of the 96 kms. It is important that you plan and train for the event well in advance.

Another important aspect you need to consider is recuiting reliable support crew to meet you at the 5 designated checkpoints along the trail.  Good support crew can be the difference in successfully completing the event. 

To gain a real understanding of what the Kokoda Challenge is all about and what you will endure as a competitor, please take the time to read the past competitor stories listed in the next section of this website.