More than 550 competitors have signed up to take on the 2026 Samson Fitness Challenge in Lismore this weekend, in what has become a major event on the annual fundraising calendar for sick children in the region.
Now in its sixteenth year, the Lismore Samson Fitness Challenge aims to raise funds for Our Kids, the children’s charity which helps sick children receive medical care locally. This year, funds raised will go towards purchasing a ventilator for the Special Care Nursery at Lismore Base Hospital.
The event kicks off on Friday, 6 March at 5:30pm with the Samson Solo, where competitors tackle the course individually in heats, battling it out for the Solo title.
The main event begins on Saturday, 7 March at 7am, with teams of four taking on grueling challenges including strength activities, running, swimming and an outdoor obstacle course.
With more than 550 competitors, it will be a sight to see.
Fierce competition
Competition in the Elite Men’s division will be fierce, with the title race heating up from 12pm. Local world obstacle champion Tony Curtis will enter a team, taking on strong contenders including The Boaty Boys, who have claimed the title for the past two years.
Saturday’s program also features the Conlon Bros Samson Kids – a dedicated obstacle course for children under 12 years, run by Mr Brad from Fitness Kidz. Volunteers from Summerland Christian College will be on hand to assist throughout the day.
The 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) will support the event alongside more than 120 volunteers, ensuring a seamless experience for competitors and spectators.
Athletes can recover at the GSAC Health Expo and Southern Cross University (SCU) Recovery Zone, where SCU osteopathy students will be working with competitors throughout the day.
Spectators and competitors can also enjoy Samson Eat Street, featuring Amici Food Van, Boost Juice, Jon’s Food Van and the Norths Baseball Club BBQ.
For more information, visit Lismore Samson Fitness Challenge, contact 0438 417 085 or come along across the weekend to support the competitors and Our Kids.
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