Check in on a Mate - A lifesaving cause.

I'm so pleased to share that I will be fundraising for Check in on a mate during my two Ironman races over two months.

Founded by Paddy McClintock, Check in on a mate (CIOAM) is a campaign to promote awareness of mental health and suicide prevention. Founded on the principle of reaching out to a friend, family or someone you haven't spoken to in a while to open up the conversation about how you really are doing.

Over the last year, Paddy has grown this campaign through talks, social media, run clubs and sporting events. And with the money raised is looking to implement mental health first aid training into primary and secondary education.

CIOAM has resonated with me since its creation and is a cause very close to my heart. My own mental health, like others has been a very real challenge I struggle with often. Those that know me well, know I have struggled with my own mental health over the past couple of years.

Sport has always been my outlet. And over the past year triathlon has become a way to deal with life stresses that would've previously tripped the balance to poor mental health. In October 2024 I completed my first Ironman 70.3 alongside Paddy, completing his first full Ironman in Portugal.

This summer for my 22nd Birthday I will be lining up at Ironman 70.3 Austria on the 31st August. And just 7 weeks later I will stand on the start line of Ironman Portugal on the 18th October 2025. Just a year after my first ever 70.3.

A full Ironman: 3.8km swim, 180km cycle, 42.2km run.

Why?

To prove to myself I can do hard things. To prove to myself I am more than the thoughts that sometimes tell me I'm not good enough.

For my friends and family that support me everyday, that will listen to me when I need to talk to someone.

For anyone struggling with their own mental health, and with the funds raised to support this campaign putting in measures to help.

Thank you. Check in on a mate.