Intrepid Travel has announced that it is giving away a free trip valued at $3,500 as part of its annual charity event, the Blue Dragon Marathon Walk.
The event, taking place on 8 September, aims to raises funds for Vietnam’s Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, a not-for-profit and longstanding Intrepid Foundation partner providing rescue care, shelter, legal advocacy, and long-term support to victims of human trafficking.
The Blue Dragon Marathon Walk is the Intrepid Foundation’s flagship fundraising event, bringing together over 1,000 people across major global cities like Melbourne, London, Hanoi, Singapore, and Bangkok. Participants can sign up as an individual or as part of a team with eligible walkers receiving an entry into the draw to win an Intrepid trip of their choice for every $350 raised.
“Raising just $250 can keep a child at risk in school for one year.” Intrepid Chair, Darrell Wade, said. “$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.”
Vietnam was the operator’s top selling market in 2023, carrying 9,900 customers.
Intrepid Foundation general manager, Biheng Zhang, said: “A hugely popular international destination for Intrepid and the industry at large, Vietnamese communities have always welcomed us with open hearts and generous hospitality. Participating in or sponsoring the marathon walk is our chance as an industry and as travellers to give back.”
Intrepid has set an ambitious goal of raising $500,000 in its seventh year. It has invited industry teams to gather and sign up for a meander (3km), micro (5km), mini (10km), half (21km), or full (42km) marathon and join them on the pavement to empower young people in Vietnam. One hundred per cent of donations will go directly to Blue Dragon.
