The Advertiser/Colliers International Trailblazer Challenge (updated 29-11-11)

6 & 7 October 2012

The countdown has begun

The Rotary Club of Adelaide and the Operation Flinders Foundation are proud to present the Annual Trailblazer Challenge.

Designed as an endurance event, Trailblazer gives participants the choice of 18, 34, 50 or 100km distances to tackle in teams of two, three or four.  Experience a walk (or run) through the stunning Adelaide Hills and Mt Lofty Ranges, and take the opportunity to truly challenge yourselves.  And in the process help raise some much needed funds for some wonderful beneficiaries.

Set in ealy October each year, this event is again set to draw a record crowd.  It offers a variety of stages to suit all ages, fitness levels and abilities.

Beginning at Pinky Flat in the heart of beautiful Adelaide, the 18km leg makes its way along the River Torrens Linear Trail and is achievable for all – a great way for families and groups to join the trail.  From here on, things start to get a little more adventurous, and a little more serious.

The next 16kms wind their way up to the Morialta Conservation Park where you can happily attest to having completed 34kms, or (legs permitting) you can push onwards and upwards to one of our most scenic lookouts at Mt Lofty Summit and the 50 km finish line.  Or the more hardy among us can push on to the 100km finish line at Kuitpo Forest – a true test of personal & team strength and determination.  For those who would like something a little different, there is also a “back 50km” event from Mount Lofty Summit starting late in the evening and on to the Kuitpo Forest finish which is proving increasingly popular.

There are seven check points spread along the 100km staffed for the duration of the event by Rotary Club of Adelaide members and other volunteers.  Participants may stop at these points to rest, receive first aid if required, and most importantly re-fuel (with food & water) and hook up with the support teams. Good support crews are the difference in trading gain with pain.

Participants are given sponsorship targets to aim for, with all funds raised going to the magnificent wilderness adventure program for youth at risk run by Operation Flinders, and to some wonderful projects of the Rotary Club of Adelaide – including Novita Children’s Services, World Youth International, the Heart Foundation and the Arthritis Foundation.  Last year’s Trailblazer raised around $200,000 for such beneficiaries, and we are hoping to increase that figure this year.

The Trailblazer Challenge is a magnificent event and a great opportunity to support some awe-inspiring organisations.   So become part of the fun and join in one of Adelaide’s premium adventure events.

Be challenged....Be a Trailblazer.