Story
Latest Update: Due to unforeseen weather conditions (thick fog), Blithfield Triathlon was cancelled and an Aquathlon (swim/run) was held in it's place. My goal is to complete an Olympic Distance Triathlon, with all sponsorship going to Cyclists Fighting Cancer, so I will now be entering Bala Triathlon, North Wales on Sunday 14th September. Same event, just a different location/course and date. Sponsorship lines are open till November so it's not too late to pledge.
On Sunday 31st August I will be competing in the Blithfield Triathlon in order to raise money for a great little charity called Cyclists Fighting Cancer. Blithfield is an Olympic distance event consisting of a 1500m open water swim, 40km bike and 10km run - a first for me, as I have only competed in sprint triathlons (half the distance) since taking up the sport earlier this year.
For those of you who were not aware, my father Peter Chatfield, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Follicular Lymphoma back in July 2005. With medical treatment, positive support from family and friends, a strict cancer fighting diet (thanks to mum) and exercise in the form of road cycling (a great passion of his), Dad was in remission by December 2005 and has been fighting fit until now. Unfortunately, a recent CT scan revealed new lumps and we are going through the motions all over again.
Over the course of the last 3 years, Dad has trained and competed in cycling events in Australia, one of which was a 210km "Around the Bay in a Day" ride in Melbourne, where he raised over $2000 AU for Cancer research. Cycling has given him a purpose and kept him going, and at 66, his strong will, positive spirit and determination to fight is a constant inspiration to me and the reason I aspire to live life to the fullest!
This is the first time I have sought sponsorship for an event I'm participating in and it will be the only occasion I do so this year, so if you're going to dip into your pockets, thank you every little helps. In light of recent news of my father's relapse, it makes it all the more worthwhile to challenge myself and raise money for a charity who's aim is to encourage cancer patients and their families to get involved in cycling/exercise to stay strong and positive throughout the treatment and recovery process.
With miles of land and water separating the UK and Australia, not being able to reach out and give my Dad a hug is extremely difficult to withstand, especially during this time. With this event however, it is reassuring to know I can show my love and support through a different means, for a person who is very dear to me.
Any support you give will be very much appreciated and is going to a worthy cause to raise money to help those suffering from Cancer.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Cyclists Fighting Cancer 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.
So please sponsor me now!