Trail Running Scholarships
Trail running is about more than fitness. It’s about exploring nature, connecting with others, and finding confidence in yourself.
The Running Wild Trail Running Scholarship has been created to remove barriers around cost and confidence for people living in the Penrith, Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains LGAs.
We want to make it possible for more people to enjoy the many benefits of trail running – being outdoors, improving physical and mental wellbeing, and joining a supportive community.
What Is Included?
Four scholarships (valued at $2,000 per person) are available for early 2026 (Jan–Jun).
Each package can be tailored to help you start your trail running journey.
Your scholarship may include:
- Physio check-up to get you moving safely (choose from The Body Mechanic, First Choice Spinal & Physiotherapy, or The Physio Depot)
- Personal coaching package (choose from Serotonin, Up Coaching, or LSPT)
- Trail running gear from Summit Gear or BMRC/Pace
- Nutrition advice from Nutrition Every Day
- Entry to Running Wild events (selected with your coach)
Scholarship recipients will also be connected with:
- Friendly local running groups (Blue Mountains Marathon Clinic, Glenbrook 440, Penrith Lower Mountains IMF RAW, Hawkesbury Trail Runners, and more)
- A supportive mentor or buddy to help you along the way
Who is it for?
The Running Wild Trail Running Scholarship is suitable for anyone enthusiastic about having a go at trail running but who might need a confidence boost or some financial help to get started.
We especially encourage applications from people whose voices and
experiences are not often seen in trail running, including:
• Young people (12–25) whose families can’t always cover the cost of sport
• Women (especially mothers and older women)
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Culturally diverse communities, including people who may have felt excluded or discriminated against in sports
• People with disability
• LGBTQIA+ community members
What are the benefits?
Experience the joy of moving through nature
Gain confidence and build skills with expert support
Improve your physical and mental wellbeing
Connect with an inspiring, welcoming community of runners
Take part in events you never thought possible!
Trail running is for everyone. This is your chance to be part of something special!
Join the movement and see where the trail takes you.
How to apply?
We’ve made the application process as simple and as flexible as possible. You don’t need to write an essay or have any specific skills or experience. Just tell us your story in the way that feels right for you.
Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
You can share your EOI in a few different ways:
- A short written application via the form below or email (please include a referee such as a teacher, relative, or friend)
- A casual phone call or coffee conversation (for anyone who a written application doesn’t suit)
- A short video or voice memo via email (followed by a quick conversation with us)
In your EOI, please tell us:
- Who you are (your name, age, and a little about your story)
- Why trail running interests you and what it could mean for you to take part
- What support matters most to you in the scholarship package
Step 2: Shortlisting
A small number of applicants will be shortlisted after we read, watch or listen to the EOIs.
Step 3: Follow-up Conversation
We’ll invite shortlisted applicants to join us in a relaxed conversation. This is just a chance to get to know you a little better.
We’ll chat about:
- Any extra details or questions from your EOI
- How you feel about committing to coaching and participating in events
- Any challenges you might face and how we can best support you
- Any questions you may have for us!
We’re also open to flexibility in the support package.
For example, we may be able to cover other small expenses that come up if there are available funds and it’s needed to support your training.
The EOI process is designed to be friendly and supportive. It is about finding people who are excited to give trail running a go, not about writing the ‘perfect’ application.
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