Story
Why MS Society?
I’m tackling this triathlon in support of the MS Society because multiple sclerosis is part of my everyday life. My wife, Charlene, lives with MS, and while it doesn’t always show on the outside, it affects almost every part of her day.
From relentless fatigue and pain to the constant mental toll of uncertainty, it's safe to say that MS is a condition that asks a lot of those who live with it.
I'll never stop being amazed at how Char deals with everything MS throws at her but nothing makes me prouder to see her showing up with determination and a level of grit most people never have to find. She carries it with quiet strength. Every. Single. Day. She refuses to let MS define her, and still chooses to live a full, beautiful life, even when it’s harder than most people will ever see.
I'm hoping I can borrow some of that grit when it comes to 28th June!!
Anyway, the MS Society play a vital role in supporting people living with MS, driving research, improving treatments and challenging the stigma that surrounds MS.
What is MS?
Why a triathlon?
It's always been on my bucket list to do an event for a charity. (Even the half marathon event I booked just for myself got cancelled right at the start of the pandemic)
I miss the satisfaction of completing something - the glory of winning a football match or the adrenaline of a swimming race.
I want to prove to myself that I have the willpower to train well beforehand and complete the race.
I'm a bloke in his mid-30s, so if it's not Hyrox, craft beers or padel then triathlons are the only thing left, no?
Swimming
I probably spent more time in water than on land for the first 10-15 years of my life, so I kinda originally felt okay about this part. Although, open water in a lake? A different story.
Cycling
Don't think I've cycled on an actual bike since 1997 around my estate, so about 2 hours up and down the Lake District hills should be interesting. And funny to watch. I've had a few back injuries in recent years so cycling may cause some pain...
Running
I'm no runner. Never have been. I barely ran on the football pitch, never mind on roads for fun. I had knee reconstruction surgery but that was 10 years ago now, so I can't even use that as an excuse!
HOWEVER... I've been training all the disciplines since the start of January & I'm enjoying seeing the progress. It's for a charity close to my heart and a cause I care deeply about. I'm going to give everything I have to finish it. If this challenge helps raise awareness, understanding, and even a small amount of money towards better care and, ultimately, a cure, then every mile will be worth it.
This is for Char & all the people living with MS. I stand with you. I see you.
Let's go.