KATRINA Small is doing her bit for the nation on Anzac Day, April 25.
The Arncliffe woman and her friend Leah Nicol will undertake a 24-hour, 100 kilometre trek — inaugural Anzac Day Challenge — through rugged Ku-rin-gai and Garigal national parks.
The human resources manager trains hard for endurance walks and marathons.
Training includes her backpack in tow which she will carry during the trek.
"There is a three-kilometre ascent and descent during the trek which is my first event since completing the Kokoda Track three years ago," she said.
"I have recovered from significant health problems since that trek.
"I contracted a nasty parasite that wrecked my digestive system and it has taken two years to get my health back on track.
"Having had a three-year hiatus from training, it has been a hard slog to get the body conditioned for the April 25 event.
"I have had all sorts of niggles and complaints have emerged and as the day gets close, I am starting to get a little nervous."
Small and Nicol had completed the Kokoda Track together.
"I am walking in honour of my dad who had served in the Australian Army for more than 20 years.
"Leah is walking in honour of her two grandfathers who fought in WWII and a great-great-great aunt who served in WWI.
"Leah is flying over from Perth to join me in this inaugural event.
"I have completed in half marathons and shorter running events, and enjoy charity challenges that include trekking and mountain bike riding. Leah is a mad adventurer. She has completed many more charity challenges such as Oxfam, Big Red Run and triathalons.
"Our game plan is to have a break every 15 kilometres, which involves stretching, food and water, and checking feet and for any hot spots.
"We will have two support teams — calling in big favours from friends and family who will drop off food and other essentials at two checkpoints.
"Preparation includes twice weekly strength sessions with personal trainer Jasmin Collins, hills and steps work, and long distance walking, clocking up 100 kilometres a week."
Small said one of her motivations for doing the trek was to support the mental health of returned soldiers, raising vital funds for the charity Mates4Mates.
"Many returned soldiers suffer from mental health problems after serving overseas or after serious injury.
"Soldiers are exposed to things that to many of us would seem shocking and inconceivable. We are trying to raise $1000 and $387 is still needed to reach this target."
Details: anzacdaychallenge.com.au
