It's no big secret that I like a challenge and although I made a good start with my '2020 Year of Adventure', completing a marathon in the freezing temperatures of the Yukon, another in the searing heat of Cyprus, 3 half marathons (Siberia, Alaska & London) and a 250km ski across one of the largest plateaus in the Arctic Circle, this all came to an abrupt halt when COVID-19 made an incredibly unwelcome appearance.

Not deterred by the lockdown situation, I managed to complete a further 3 marathons (one running up and down the lane on which I was staying conveniently named 'Whynot Lane' (dressed as a slice of orange! - all within the lockdown social distancing constraints), and another around the outside of the house and garden (in full arctic kit...and the trusty slice of orange costume of course!). My final lockdown marathon was during my training to volunteer at the NHS Nightingale Hospital in London, around the front of the NHS Nightingale Hospital in full scrubs and face mask.

Despite having not swam and only been on my bike twice this year, when I heard about this awesome challenge that former Royal Marine Officer Monty Halls had set himself, I jumped at the chance of giving it a go.

Although I know I'm capable of covering the distance in normal circumstances, never before has it been as epic as this over such gruelling terrain.  As per usual I certainly wont be the fittest or fastest to complete this challenge but I'll do my best to make it fun, smile (or it maybe grimace?!) and hopefully have your support in helping me raise money and awareness for yet another incredible military charity.

During the challenge, our safety kayaker on the sea swim will be non other than Jon White, a former Captain in the Royal Marines.  Jon tragically lost both his legs above the knee and his right arm at the elbow whilst serving in Afghanistan, but that doesn't stop him moving forward.   

Had it not have been for the fantastic support of the Royal Marines Charity, Jon and others like him would not be able to achieve what he has and that includes the incredible accolade of having completed the Devizes to Westminster canoe race!

The Royal Marines Charity exists to help the entire Royal Marines family. offering a range of services to both serving, veterans and their families. 

Thank you very much in advance for your support.