Story
I'm Finlay Mathias – I'm 23, I was born with a cleft lip, and this year I’ve set myself a new challenge: completing the IRONMAN 70.3 in Washington Tri-Cities on September 21st, 2025. What better way to celebrate my 24th birthday than by crawling across a finish line?!
That’s 113.2 kilometers, all in support of CLAPA UK (Cleft Lip and Palate Association). I’m raising £1132 – that’s £10 for every kilometer I drag myself through on race day.
I was born with a cleft lip, so I know firsthand the challenges, surgeries, appointments, and emotional ups and downs that come with it. CLAPA is an incredible charity that supports children born with Cleft Lip across the UK, providing support groups, trips and other opportunities for children born with the condition. You can learn more about CLAPA and what they do at the bottom of this page.
A huge part of my inspiration is my mum – she’s been a runner my whole life, she’s also got a cleft lip, and has always shown me what strength looks like. That said… I'm competitive (Middle Child competitive) So while she’s smashing 10Ks and half marathons, I couldn't help but one up her... a little. Sorry Mum, love you!
Whether you can donate a little or a lot, your support means the world – and it helps kids and families facing cleft conditions get the care and community they need.
I'll be updating this page via Strava and text where appropriate - say tuned for updates, especially as we get closer to the race. For now, I'll be in the pool, on the bike path, or in the gym!
Three babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate every day in the UK, and they face a 20-year treatment pathway which can continue well into adulthood. The Cleft Lip & Palate Association (CLAPA) is here to make sure no one has to go through this alone.
Every donation will help CLAPA to continue to provide specialist, targeted services to give people affected by cleft the knowledge and emotional support they need, while their UK-wide community brings together people from all walks of life to share experiences and learn to cope.