Story
Hi visitor!
I've completed the Helvellyn Triathlon 2008 to raise money for a charity. Here's why:
It's a really sad story that the impacts of climate change are felt most strongly by those who are least able to deal with them. These impacts come in various forms (droughts, flooding, soil erosion, infestation, land-slides, etc), and the people affected are widespread.
I chose this charity, as they help with practical & technological solutions to everyday problems for people who have very little indeed. They work around the world, in South America, Africa and Asia, and the solutions they apply vary widely, but have one thing in common, they are appropriate. Have a look at their website to find out about some of the things they do:
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Practical Action gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
The Event
The Helvellyn Triathlon approximates to a Middle Distance event, or Half Ironman, although due to extreme weather conditions this year, they cut it a bit short. This race is included in a new series of the Ten Toughest triathlons in the UK. It began with a 1 km swim in Ullswater (water was apparently 10 degrees C in some parts of the lake) which took me about 20 minutes, followed by a 38 mile cycle round the Helvellyn massif, including the ascent of Kirkstone Pass, which I completed in just over 2 hours at an average speed of around 29kph. The last stage was an ascent on foot towards Helvellyn (though we did not goto the summit due to weather conditions, but went to within about 200m altitude to 'Red Tarn'), just less than 7 miles round trip. The run was really tough, but thankfully my leg cramps were kept at bay, and I descended strongly to finish the whole event in a smidgeon over 4 hours. The results will be available here:
http://www.trihard.co.uk/HelvellynHome.htm
The JustGiving page will remain open for donations for some time to come, so please donate if you feel inclined.
Thanks,
Danny