The Great Adventure Challenge
Official WebsiteAbout This Event
The Great Adventure Challenge is a thrilling 45‑65 km multisport race for teams of eight, set in the scenic Greater Sydney region. Combine trail running, mountain biking, kayaking and surprise challenges while raising funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Events & entry fees
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Saturday 29 May
-
45-65KM5:30pm$2585
Entry fees as listed on 30 Aug 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.
Quick Facts
- Date
- Saturday, 29 May 2027
- Terrain
- Mixed (trail, road, water)
- Location
- Greater Sydney, NSW
- Entry Fee
- $2,350 per team + GST (total $2,585)
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Start Time
- 5:30 pm
- Good for Beginners
- No – the race involves mixed terrain, kayaking, navigation and team rotations, suited to experienced adventure racers.
Event Details
Course Description
Teams will tackle a secret, mixed‑terrain course that typically weaves through bushland, coastal tracks and waterways within three hours of Sydney. A typical day begins with an 11 km run, followed by a 19 km mountain‑bike leg, a 7 km trail run, a 3 km kayak segment, a 10 km bike ride and finishes with a final 3 km kayak plus mystery team challenges. Expect hidden checkpoints, navigation puzzles and rapid transitions where half the crew rests while the other half is on‑course. The varied terrain offers stunning forest vistas, river crossings and panoramic views, demanding endurance, teamwork and outdoor skills. The route changes annually, ensuring a fresh challenge, and each team receives detailed maps, a compass and a basic first‑aid kit at the start line.
Getting There
The Great Adventure Challenge takes place in a natural park in the Greater Sydney region, typically within three hours of the city centre. As the exact start location is released on race day, participants should check the official website for detailed directions, parking options and public‑transport information. Plan to arrive early to complete registration, collect your race pack and attend the pre‑race briefing.
Weather & What to Pack
May in New South Wales is autumn, bringing mild to cool temperatures ranging from 12 °C to 20 °C, with the possibility of light rain and changing conditions in bushland areas. Expect moderate humidity and plenty of sunshine between showers. Dress in layers – a moisture‑wicking base, a warm mid‑layer and a waterproof jacket – and wear sturdy shoes for trail sections. Carry enough water and an electrolyte drink, as cooler weather can still lead to dehydration during a long multisport effort.
Race details last updated 5 Oct 2026
Ready to run The Great Adventure Challenge?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I register my team and what are the deadlines?
Team captains register online and pay the $2,350 entry fee plus GST ($2,585 total). Registrations close at midnight on Wednesday 19 May 2027. Teams that have paid in full and entered all eight members by 29 April 2027 receive a 30‑minute time credit.
What is the refund policy if we can’t compete?
Refund requests can be made up to one month before the event, with a 20 % administration fee deducted. No refunds are issued after that date. If the event is cancelled for reasons such as weather or other force‑majeure, it will be rescheduled; the same refund policy applies if you cannot attend the new date.
What gear must I bring on race day?
Each team receives a race vest, map, compass, basic first‑aid kit and whistles. You must bring personal clothing suitable for mixed terrain, a sturdy bike helmet, waterproof phone case, sufficient food and water, and any personal navigation tools you prefer. Kayak equipment is supplied by the organisers.
Is swimming ability required for the race?
Yes. A minimum of four team members must be capable of swimming at least 100 m, as this is required for the on‑course kayaking legs.
What should I expect on the day of the event?
The race starts at 5:30 pm. Teams of eight rotate between on‑course legs and support crew, with hidden checkpoints and mystery challenges. Arrive early to complete registration, collect your race pack, attend the safety briefing and warm‑up before the first leg begins.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races.
- Pirrama parkrun Sat 8:00am · 1.5 km away · Darling Island
- North Sydney parkrun Sat 8:00am · 3.6 km away · Crows Nest
- Centennial parkrun Sat 7:00am · 4.5 km away · Centennial Park
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