THE CHAPMAN'S CHALLENGE 2026
22 – 24 MAY 2026
The human spirit thrives when tested by nature—a truth immortalised by the story of Freddy Spencer Chapman. His legendary three-year odyssey through the Malayan jungle,
as told in The Jungle is Neutral, is a masterclass in resilience, fieldcraft, and profound harmony with the wild.
In 1945, his epic journey culminated in a daring swim across the waters of Emerald Bay to rendezvous with a submarine. This defining moment, set against a backdrop of
ancient rainforest and pristine sea, stands as a timeless testament to the triumph of tenacity.
The Chapman's Challenge 2026 invites you to write your own chapter in this legacy through a demanding test of endurance: a 3.8 km road run around the island,
a 2.4 km trek through a primordial two-million-year-old rainforest, and a 1 km open-water swim in the historic waters of Emerald Bay, finishing at the iconic Chapman's Bar.
Prove your mettle, secure your place on the official Chapman's Challenge Leaderboard, and compete for premium prizes whilst honouring a legend.
We are proud to extend this legacy for 2026 with three new ways to be part of the adventure.
THE CHAPMAN'S CHALLENGE:
JUNIOR EDITION
Perfect for younger competitors, The Chapman's Challenge: Junior Edition is a tailored course for ages 11-17. This modified adventure keeps the core spirit of racing but removes the swim, offering a thrilling, age-appropriate introduction designed to build confidence, resilience, and a love for the outdoors in a supportive yet exhilarating environment.
THE CHAPMAN'S CHALLENGE:
RELAY EDITION
Land & Sea introduces a thrilling team dynamic. One partner tackles the rugged land course, while the other conquers the open-water swim segment. It’s the ultimate test of complementary strengths, demanding strategy and shared resolve to complete the iconic challenge together.
Your challenge awaits. Whether you race for the podium, take on the full challenge as a junior,
or champion the effort from the sidelines, your place in this historic event begins here.
Don't miss your chance. Register now for The Chapman's Challenge 2026
and be part of an unforgettable adventure in the heart of paradise.
THE CHAPMAN'S CHALLENGE LEADERBOARD
| NO. | NAME | NATIONALITY | DATE | TIME |
| 1 | Matt Poole | Australian | 11.5.2019 | 00:45:04 |
| 2 | Jason Loh | Malaysian | 12.5.2018 | 00:46:52 |
| 3 | Rikigoro Shinozuka | Malaysian | 14.5.2016 | 00:47:18 |
| 4 | Callum Meehan | New Zealander | 11.5.2019 | 00:48:49 |
| 5 | Harriet Brown | Australian | 13.5.2017 | 00:51:17 |
| 6 | Mathieu Alkharfan | French | 12.5.2018 | 00:52:43 |
| 7 | Andrea Cloarec | French | 11.5.2019 | 00:53:08 |
| 8 | Stephen Spencer Chapman | British | 12.5.2018 | 00:53:15 |
| 9 | Benjamin Lewis | British | 12.5.2018 | 00:54:08 |
| 10 | Quentin Cloarec | French | 11.5.2019 | 00:55:13 |
