THE KOKODA CHALLENGE

Lake Macquarie Ultra Marathon: The 48km Kokoda Challenge

Embrace the Ultimate Ultra Marathon Challenge

Start Time

7:30 AM

20 hours to complete

48km through olney state forest

Minimum age to register 48km kokoda challenge

13yrs old (or turning 13 the year of the event)

5 checkpoints

1 support crew checkpoint

The 48km Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge is an ultra marathon experience unlike any other. Located a short drive from Newcastle, this event is not just a race to the finish line; it’s an adventure in endurance, mateship, and historical reverence. The 48km Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge is a test of physical and mental strength, where personal bests are set aside in favour of collective perseverance and shared experiences.

The Essence of The Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge

Unlike traditional ultra marathons, the Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge is a team endeavour. That’s right, to sign up, you must be part of a team, and you must start and finish the challenge together. This challenge, set in the beautiful yet demanding landscapes of Olney State Forest and Watagans National Park, calls on teams to conquer the course together, echoing the unity and resilience shown by our Diggers in 1942.

This means that the completion of the course is a joint effort, with teams starting and finishing as one. This format deepens the significance of the challenge, highlighting the values of mateship, endurance, and sacrifice — principles that were integral to the Kokoda Campaign and remain relevant today.

Challenges for All Levels

While this 48km Newcastle ultra marathon is a hallmark of the Lake Macquarie Kokoda challenge, we also offer 18km and 30km options. These courses provide varying levels of challenge, making the event accessible to teams of diverse experience and fitness levels, all united by the same spirit of determination and camaraderie. But remember, none of the distances are a walk in the park!

A Journey Through Nature and History

Starting from Cooranbong, a serene town just a short drive from Newcastle, the course weaves through the stunning terrains of Olney State Forest and Watagans National Park. Participants are not just completing an ultra marathon; they are traversing a path that’s a tribute to history, with steep climbs and rugged trails that will test their limits and strengthen the bonds with their teammates.

Are You Ready for Newcastle’s Ultimate Ultra Marathon Challenge?

The Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge near Newcastle is more than just an ultra marathon; it's an opportunity to unite with your team and partake in a journey that’s both physically demanding and historically enlightening. It's about pushing beyond individual capacities, embracing the essence of true teamwork, and honouring the legacy of those who exemplified unyielding courage and mateship. Gather your team and prepare to embark on an unforgettable challenge. Are you ready to face the Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge?

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Bugler at The Kokoda Challenge start line

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Our Events

18km BRISBANE KOKODA CHALLENGE

The Kokoda Challenge is operated by the Kokoda Youth Foundation, we are a local charity that exists to mentor local youth in the community through our experiential youth programs. Through our events, your team will fundraise for our 'Kokoda Kids' and honour Australia's Veterans.