Love, sweat and tears is the catch cry for this year’s Samson Fitness Challenge on March 6-7, where teamwork can win the prestigious Samson Title.

Rebekka Battista, organiser of the annual Our Kids fundraiser, said the catch cry was fitting because all team registrations had to be in by Valentine’s Day, February 14. 

“All the gyms in the area have members in training for it,” Rebekka said. “You need to have a good fitness level and if you are keen to do the challenge, you can hook into one of the gyms - or band together with others in your level of fitness. 

“Some runners groups are in training for it too – it’s all about teamwork and working together to win.”

Rebekka won’t be entering herself in the Samson Challenge this year, as she’s “not back to her old self yet” after donating a kidney to her son Isaak late last year.

“I run the whole event and it’s a Samson just setting it up,” she said. “If anyone wants to help volunteer on the Friday and Saturday of the event, we always looking for volunteers.”

Rebekka said competitors were referred to as ‘Samsonites’ and could be seen out and about training around Lismore, running, flipping tractor tyres and doing burpees. 

“This year the 10th Samson and is one of Our Kids major fundraisers and the proceeds will go towards helping to purchase one of two wireless CTG machines to help monitor babies and mums during labour. This equipment is worth $40,000.”

The Samson has four events: Samson Solo, Samson Teen Sprint, Samson Kids and the Samson Team Event. 

The team event has teams of four people completing 10 gruelling challenges including strength activities, running, swimming and an outdoor obstacle course. 

The event is based at Hepburn Park in Goonellabah and the run will take the competitors through the streets to the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre for the swim leg then a run back to the oval where competitors will complete the last two fitness legs.

The Fastest team will take home the Samson Title.

The 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) Lismore’s local Army Reserve unit will be there helping to marshal on the day along with over 100 volunteers - and there will be the GSAC Health Expo along with the Southern Cross University Recovery Zone that will ensure everyone is cared for.

“The Samson is now 10 years old so we have a Mystery Leg to keep our competitors guessing that may include the number 10 …so watch this space” Jason Clarke, Team Samson organiser said.

“The Samson attracts people from all over the state and South East Queensland who enjoy keeping fit and this event is a way to put your body to the test and at the same time help support local children.”

To register online, visit http://www.lismoresamson.com

For more information, contact the Our Kids office on 6620 2705.