Community gearing up for 15th annual Samson Challenge

REGISTRATIONS are starting to roll in, with hundreds of people expected to raise money for sick and disadvantaged children at the annual Samson Challenge fitness competition.

The event, now in its 15th year, will be held on Saturday, March 7 at Hepburn Park, Goonellabah.

It raises vital funds for the Our Kids charity, with money used to purchase paediatric equipment for the Children’s Ward and Special Care Nursery at Lismore Base Hospital.

The Samson Challenge is a four-person team event, with each team put through nine gruelling challenges.

The challenges include a farmers walk with jerry cans, prowler push, 130kg truck tyre flip, burpee challenge, two 2km runs, a 1km swim and an obstacle course.

“The Samson is an extraordinary event that attracts many people from all over the state and South-East Queensland,” Our Kids fundraising coordinator Rebekka Battista said.

“It brings together the community and, along with the huge team of volunteers, this event helps put Lismore on the map for sport and fitness while supporting local children.”

Funds raised from last year’s event helped purchase a retinal imaging system valued at $160,000.

The equipment is used to treat eye diseases in children that can lead to blindness.

Part of the event this year will be held on the Friday night, with the Samson Solo taking place across Hepburn Park and the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre.

Women make up a large part of the challenge, with female teams outnumbering men’s and mixed entries last year.

There is also a 3km teen sprint and obstacle course for children under 12.

About 120 volunteers will be involved, with a health expo and recovery zone also part of the event.

Registrations can be made at lismoresamson.com.