On Sunday 17 July 2016, I will be embarking on my first (only - maz says!) Ironman event to raise money for a charity that is close to my heart, The Alzheimers Society.  

So,what is an Ironman? 

An Ironman is an endurance triathlon event which consists of a 2.4 mile swim, followed by 112 mile cycle ride, and a 26.2 mile run (yes - it finishes with a marathon!).  All three events must be completed within a total of 17 hours.  It is widely considered one of the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world!  

So, your next question is probably WHY??!

Fast approaching a (mid-life crisis?!)... forty, I was looking for a bold challenge.  Only a year or so ago, I was the kind of swimmer that could only manage a length or two of breast stroke before spluttering to a stop at the shallow end to get my breath - so this is a challenge of massive proportions!  I also thought this was a great opportunity to raise funds for a charity I feel very strongly about, The Alzheimers Society.

So why Alzheimers?

In April 2009, my Father-in-law Pat died, due to Alzheimers disease.  A lovely, kind man, he is sadly missed by all his family.  Pat was barely in his sixties when he began to show symptoms of Alzheimers.  He had been looking forward to a long and happy retirement and spending time with his wife and family, particularly his young grandchildren - several of whom he never got the chance to meet.  We lost the man we knew and loved to this devastating disease long before he physically left us.  

Alzheimers disease desperately needs more funding and I hope the money I raise will help other families currently dealing with this horrendous disease and contribute towards research into finding a cure.  Alzheimers is NOT an inevitable part of aging.  It is an  irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys
memory and thinking skills.  People with severe Alzheimers cannot communicate and are completely dependent on others for their care. 

I am competing this event in memory of Pat as well as my own parents Rita and Tom.