Little ones have the chance to participate in their own junior Toughen Up in tandem with the adults on March 16, 2016 with the coming of Obstacool.

The travelling fitness fun challenge is designed for children aged 5-12.

The course is comprised of giant inflatables and fun obstacles.

“Designed with fun and safety in mind, the Obstacool course includes a range of obstacles that are both challenging and fun. Suitable for kids of all fitness levels,” Obstacool program manager Peter Spanidis said.

“The course has been designed to allow participants to run at their own pace.”

The new addition will run in tandem with the testing teen and adult fourth annual Toughen Up.

“I think it’s just bringing another element to the obstacle race,” Toughen Up committee member Lisa Longhurst said.

“I think you’ll probably get more people with children involved with Obstacool.”

She hoped schools might come on board for 2016 to celebrate local health, community and fitness.

Lisa said numbers have been growing for the annual endurance challenge with over 70 teams this year.

Inverell Toughen Up is open to teams with ages 13 and older and the 2016 event will have both competitive and non-competitive sections.

“It’s about nine kilometres of obstacles, mud, running and swimming,” Lisa said.

She felt the challenge’s element of teamwork was a valuable key to success.

“It’s an adventure and it’s hard, and it takes teammates to encourage each other, and I think if you’re with other people and you come against something hard, it’s easier to overcome,” she said.

The Toughen Up committee has put out the call for teams, and Lisa said there is a discount early bird registration fee until December 31.

More information, registration forms and training programs are available on the event web site: http://inverelltoughenup.net.