Intrepid Travel is giving away a free trip valued at AUD $3,500 for its annual charity event, the Blue Dragon Marathon Walk.

Taking place on Sunday, 8 September, the marathon walk raises funds for Vietnam’s Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, a not-for-profit and longstanding Intrepid Foundation partner that provides rescue care, shelter, legal advocacy, and long-term support to victims of human trafficking.

The Marathon Walk is the Intrepid Foundation’s flagship fundraising event. It brings together over 1,000 people from major global cities like Melbourne, London, Hanoi, Singapore, and Bangkok. Participants can sign up to walk as individuals or as part of a team.

For every $350 raised, eligible walkers will be entered into the draw to win an Intrepid trip of their choice.

Rallying industry friends and colleagues to get moving for a good cause, Intrepid Chair Darrell Wade said: “Raising just $250 can keep a child at risk in school for one year. $350 can reunite a trafficked victim with their family and provide them with emergency support to start over.” “By fundraising or sponsoring the Blue Dragon Marathon Walk, you can easily yet dramatically change the lives of children and families in need,” adds Wade.

Vietnam was the operator’s top-selling market in 2023, carrying 9,900 customers.

“A hugely popular international destination for Intrepid and the industry at large, Vietnamese communities have always welcomed us with open hearts and generous hospitality,” Intrepid Foundation General Manager Biheng Zhang added.

“Participating in or sponsoring the marathon walk is our chance as an industry and as travellers to give back.”

Intrepid has set an ambitious $500,000 fundraising target in its seventh year.

The company is inviting the industry to gather their teams and sign up for a meander (3km), micro (5km), mini (10km), half (21km), or full (42km) marathon on the fundraising page. Then, join them on the pavement to empower young people in Vietnam. One hundred percent of donations will go directly to Blue Dragon.

Local walks in Melbourne will depart from Hampton Life Saving Club, with a free BBQ on return.