Cooroora challenge is beyond compare

MOUNT Cooroora is the scene of one of the most gruelling and challenging athletic events Australia has to offer and continues to attract competitors from around the world.
As part of the King of the Mountain festival, Sunday 24 July marks the 38th anniversary of the notoriously steep 4.2 kilometre Bendigo Bank ‘King of the Mountain Challenge’.
A project of The Cooroy and Pomona Lion’s Club, the King of the Mountain Festival brings together a host of attractions and event experiences, and competitors and spectators alike can look forward to another fun-filled event which includes other family friendly races, heritage markets, antiques fair, amusement rides, local cuisine and live music all within the beautiful hinterland setting of Pomona.
Festivities will begin early with the arrival of many different car clubs showing off their classic vehicles in the lead up to the big race at 2.30pm. Celebrations will continue afterwards and into the evening with live music and free entertainment.
There will also be the inaugural ‘Prince and Princess’ race on Saturday 23 July. Aimed at children aged 9-13, there are many prizes up for grabs and the opportunity to present the main race winner with their trophy on the Sunday.
In the lead-up to the main event is the 10th annual Poker Run on Sunday 3 July. Proudly supported by the Gympie Historical Motorcycle Club, riders and their passengers will enjoy a scenic trip through the beautiful Noosa Hinterland and can join in on a friendly game of poker along the way by collecting cards from designated stops.
The holder of the best poker hand at the end of the day is declared the winner and there are additional random prize draws during the day. Last year saw over 300 riders participate in the major Cooroy-Pomona Lions Club fund-raiser.
Cost of entry is $20 per rider (including poker hand) plus $10 per pillion (non-poker hand). Registrations commence from 7.30am at Stan Topper Park, Pomona.
Bacon and egg muffins are available to purchase before a 9am departure. Free tea and coffee and home-made morning tea is available.
The ride finishes at the Country Life Hotel in Kin Kin where riders can enjoy a beer during the presentation and free sausage sizzle. For more information on the festival or poker run visit the website at www.kingofthemountain.com.au.