Hundreds of competitors are set to descend on Lismore this weekend to take part in this year’s Samson Fitness Challenge, tackling everything from swimming and running to gruelling challenges like the sled pull, jerry can walk and tyre flip.

The morning competitors will compete in cooler but still warm conditions, while the afternoon group will be working their way through the course in temperatures around 29 degrees.

Now in its fifteenth year, the Lismore Samson aims to raise funds for Our Kids, which helps sick children receive medical care locally. Funds raised will go towards the purchase of medical equipment to help with the treatment of retinal issues in premature babies.

Powered by NBN News, the event kicks off at 5.30pm on Friday, 28 February at Hepburn Park in Goonellabah with the Samson Solo, where competitors tackle the course individually in heats. The fastest competitor will take home the title.

The main event begins on Saturday, 1 March at 7am, with teams of four taking on gruelling challenges, including strength activities, running, swimming, and an outdoor obstacle course. With more than 500 competitors, the atmosphere will be electric.

Competition in the Elite Men’s division is fierce, with the title race heating up from 11am. Meanwhile, this year’s women’s teams outnumber both the men’s and mixed teams, making for an exciting competition.

Saturday’s schedule also features Teen Sprint (3 km) – a high-energy race for young athletes and the Conlon Bros Samson Kids, a dedicated obstacle course for children under 12 years, run by Mr Brad from Fitness Kidz.

Sponsored by Conlon Bros Earth Moving and Sea & Sky Sensory Co, the Teen Sprint includes an inflatable jumping castle and unlimited obstacle course fun for just $10, while the climbing wall is an extra $5. Volunteers from Summerland Christian College will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Lismore’s local Army Reserve unit, the 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) will assist on the day, alongside more than 120 volunteers, ensuring a seamless event.

Athletes can recover at the Southern Cross University Recovery Zone, while spectators and competitors can enjoy Samson Eat Street, featuring delicious offerings from Amici Food Van, Boost Juice, and the Norths Baseball Club BBQ.

For more information, visit the website lismoresamson.com, or Facebook Lismore Samson on Facebook or call 0438 417 085 or simply join us on the day to support the competitors!