Updated on Aug 22nd 2010 at 11:00 AM using the JustGiving iPhone app

Many thanks everyone we both done it! Great day will post some photos soon

Updated on Aug 20th 2010 at 10:36 PM using the JustGiving iPhone app

14 hours to go ... Team assembled

Hi all

Arthur McAnerney and Nicola Coyle are facing the challenge of a lifetime as they gear up to swim cycle run the Carlinfgford Olympic Triathlon this saturday.

Arthur 34, is usually seen stacking milk in his Shop, Spar, in Castlecourt Shopping Centre. Nicola 30, Arthurs sister is more likely to be seen knee deep in nappies as full time mother of James 3 & Jean 2  but on August 21st they will be donning their shorts, wet suits and cleats and  swimming 1.5km, cycling 40Km and running 10km to raise money for The Northern Ireland Hospice.

"I've never even run for a bus before," says Arthur. "The last time I got any serious exercise was in PE lessons at school. And that was 17 years ago!  Thou I've got out a few Monday evenings for a coached running session. And I've decided to knock the chicken burger & curry chip on the head. I must be loosing it. But whats really pushing me on is the thought of my sister beating me, and I've a Brother in Law Fergal Cunningham who done it last Year and he was even heavier than me!"

"I'm a fitness freak well in the sense I freak'n hate it," says Nicola. "I couldnt think of a better cause than raising money for the Northern Ireland Hospice and kicking my Big Brothers Ass. It was a no brainer for me. Well its true I'm going to kick his ass and just in case I've been flat out training. I've been getting up before the family for a morning running session. With two toddlers your never far away from peak fitness levels ;)."   

The hard work will all be worthwhile for Arthur & Nicola if they succeed in raising £2,000 for The Northern Ireland Hospice. Their Mother Catherine McAnerney(Maiden name McGeogh from Blackrock) is currently in remission after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008. Catherine lost her brother/(Uncle to Arthur & Nicola) Sean McGeogh of Sasaktoon Canada in 2010 & Sister/(Aunt to Arthur & Clodagh) Terry Boyd of Newry in 2009 and dear family friend Pat Quinn of Armagh in 2007 to cancer. Their mother has relayed how the support of the The Northern Ireland Hospice for the family and those suffering from terminal cancer as a vital help allowing all the dignity that they deserve.   

"When Mum was diagnosed with cancer it was a real shock for everyone," Nicola explained. "Coming just after Pats passing and Terry's diagnosis it was a real blow to her and those around her. 

We thought we could raise some money to help and give a little back for the help and support they have given to our family and friends." 

We hope you can dig deep and your all more than welcome to cheer us on........ only 3 days left  


You can pay by credit or debit card, and the money will go directly to The Northern Ireland Hospice. Where supporters are taxpayers, the charity will automatically receive 28% extra in Gift Aid, which makes Justgiving the most efficient way of sponsoring Arthur & Nicola Thanks for taking the time to visit our fund raising for Carlingford Triathlon page in aid of the Northern Ireland Hospice.

Donating is simple, fast and totally secure. So please dig deep and donate now. After donating you can support us even further by passing on our link to your friends and family.

 http://www.justgiving.com/Arthur-and-Nicola-Carlingford-Triathlon