Event Overview
Kokoda Challenge Sydney is a team endurance event held across 19-20 September 2026 in the Helensburgh and Heathcote area of NSW, moving through Royal National Park and Heathcote National Park. Teams of 2-5 choose from 18km, 48km or 96km. The start is listed as Rex Jackson Oval in Helensburgh, with the finish at Heathcote Oval. The longer options operate with extended cut-off times and multiple checkpoints.
What the Course Demands
This course is described as rugged with steep climbs and uneven terrain, so athletes should expect frequent changes in gradient and footing over long hours. The 48km can extend into the night, and the 96km has a 39-hour cut-off, making pacing and time-on-feet management central to execution. Checkpoints are used across each distance, and support crew access is limited, with greater emphasis on support for the longest events.
Who This Event Suits Best
Kokoda Challenge Sydney suits runners and fast-hikers who prefer long, sustained efforts in a team format and who are comfortable sharing decisions and tempo over variable terrain. The 18km works for first-time entrants wanting a shorter day, while 48km targets experienced endurance participants managing a long time window. The 96km best fits athletes with strong resilience and experience handling extended duration and overnight movement.
