The Ironman Triathlon (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run) has fascinated me since I was a child and I am delighted to say that I am training towards my first Ironman, due to take place on July 18th this year. Training began last August and has been relentless since then: bike workouts that take up half my day, running until my legs refuse to work and swimming so much that the pool receptionist told me to: "chill out, it's Christmas Eve, mate!" As gruelling as it is, I love training for this sport and I would like to say a huge thank-you to all those who have trained with me, encouraged me and inspired me on this journey. Of course, my biggest thanks go to my parents who introduced me to all three disciplines of this sport and who selflessly provide me with everything I need and more.

 

The charity I am supporting in doing the Ironman is the Alzheimer's Research Trust. This is a leading organisation that funds many of the top research projects throughout Britain in the search for a cure for Alzheimer's dementia. The disease is growing in incidence at an alarming rate and costs the economy far more money than cancer or heart disease.The money invested into Alzheimer's research does not measure up to the magnitude of it's burden upon the NHS, the sufferers and their carers. Donating to this charity will help to amend this deficit and provide scientists with better resources to work towards tackling this disease. Please take time to look at their website: http://www.alzheimers-research.org.uk/

As a medical student and as a relative, I have witnessed how Alzheimer's disease can affect people and I understand what it takes from these people's lives and those around them. It is a testing, humiliating and relentless illness that demands the utmost mental strength whilst depriving you of that strength at the same time, day in, day out, for years. In training for the Ironman, I have derived tremendous inspiration from these people and I know that when I cross the finish line I will be thinking of them.

 

Thank-you for your support.

 

Hugo