The Cloud 9 Challenge

The Cloud 9 Challenge · 1 November 2025
In 2025, I am undertaking a series of physical challenges over 7 months. My 2025 will be filled with plenty of marathons, triathlons and ironmans! I have already begun my intense and rigorous training, and I am looking forward to facing these challenges head-on.
I am undertaking the following 9 challenges to raise money for St Oswald’s Hospice. St Oswald’s Hospice is a local charitable hospice rooted in the North East. They have supported local people and their families for over 35 years, providing free specialist care for adults, young people, children and babies who are living with a progressive, life-limiting condition, and supporting their families and carers too. St Oswald’s Hospice are a great charity who do meaningful community work, and I am honoured to be raising money to put towards their incredible cause. Any donations would be greatly appreciated.
Challenge 1
9th March - Kingdom of Northumbria
I will begin my 2025 Cloud 9 challenge in March with the Kingdom of Northumbria, running 34 miles along the stunning coast of Northumberland. Starting at Bamburgh Castle and finishing at Druridge Bay Country Park.
Challenge 2
27th April - Ironman 70.3 Valencia
In April, I will undertake my second challenge with the Ironman 70.3 in Valencia. Beginning with a 1.9km swim in the Marina de Valencia, followed by a 90km cycle throughout Valencia, with an elevation gain of 700m! Finally, I will complete a 2-lap 21.1km run along the Túrua River path, where I will finish this triathlon!
Challenge 3
11th May Ironman 70.3 Viet Nam
My third event takes me to Viet Nam (Da Nang) where I take on a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride and a half marathon after travelling for more than 24 hours in blistering heat.
Challenge 4
25th May - Edinburgh Marathon
My third challenge is one I have attempted before, the Edinburgh Marathon. However, this year, I am aiming to improve on my time from last year, running 26.2 miles through the historic and picturesque city of Edinburgh.
Challenge 5
22nd June - Westfriesland 70.3 Ironman
Challenge 4 will be the halfway point of my 2025 Cloud 9 challenge, and I will be doing another half-ironman to mark this! This time in the Netherlands. This challenge begins with a 1.9km swim around the old harbour in Hoorn, followed by a 90km cycle through the Danish countryside, finally I will complete a 21.1km run through the city centre of Hoorn.
Challenge 6
19th July - Castle 2 Castle (100 Mile Ultra)
Challenge 5 is my longest running challenge of 2025 – a 100-mile ultramarathon! This ultramarathon begins at Bamburgh Castle and ends at Edinburgh Castle, following a scenic costal route.
Challenge 7
16th August - Kalmar Ironman 140.6
A 2.4 mile swim followed by 112 mile on the bike and a marathon to finish. A true test of physical and mental strength. This one is a challenge logistically, mentally and physically.
Challenge 8
31st August - The Geordieman 140.6
A 2.4-mile swim in the Ladyburn Lake, followed by a 112-mile cycle along the Northumberland coast and finally, a 26.2-mile run around Druridge Bay Country Park.
Challenge 9
7th September - Great North Run
I will be in Newcastle for the Great North Run. Starting in Newcastle, heading over the famed Tyne Bridge, through Gateshead and finishing in South Shields.
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