Lakes Ranch Camp hosts a children's race that embraces mess: mud, outdoor running, and obstacles designed for young participants and significant effort. The Rotorua Junior Tough Guy and Gal Challenge offers a "muddy adventure" for primary and intermediate-aged children, presented as a scaled-down "obstacle course race" suitable for kids.
Participants will encounter "kid-sized obstacles" such as "mud pits, climbing walls, and crawling tunnels" intended to let children "test their abilities and build confidence." Separate course options are available for school years 3-4 and 5-8. The event welcomes children of all abilities, whether they aim to compete with friends or navigate the course at their own speed. The event emphasizes a finisher’s medal, opportunities to "celebrate every accomplishment," and a day focused on "trying your best and having fun."