WORLD PARATRIATHLON CHAMPION URGES DISABLED PEOPLE TO TRI TOGETHER FOR CHARITY

With the Olympic and Paralympic Games fast approaching, World paratriathlon champion Jane Egan is urging disabled people to join her and take part in Tri Together, a triathlon event launched by Leonard Cheshire Disability.

Shortlisted for the British Triathlon Event of the Year 2011, Tri Together is a unique short distance triathlon for people of all ages and abilities to swim, bike and run together. Following the success of the first event, this year’s event will take place on 19 August at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in South London.

Jane Egan, current World Paratriathlon Champion, only took up triathlon three years ago, after she was diagnosed with a neurological disorder and had begun to use a wheelchair.

Jane says: “I had always enjoyed sport and didn’t want to give it up. I found triathlons were not only great fun, but felt inclusive too. Everyone who is doing a triathlon knows it is tough, which is why they encourage each other along the way, creating a fantastic atmosphere. It is a great way to cement friendships and meet new people.

“As well as having fun and challenging yourself, you will be raising money to help Leonard Cheshire Disability to continue supporting thousands of disabled people across the UK. So if you secretly wish that you could do a triathlon but haven’t yet plucked up the courage to give it a go, then this is the event for you. Over 80% of participants in 2011 were beginners, so you won’t be alone.

“I am really excited about taking part in this year’s event. So why not join me and sign up today?”

Tri Together is fully inclusive with an indoor swimming pool, accessible changing rooms and toilets, and wide paths on the run and cycle routes. You can take part on your own or share the challenge in a relay team with family, friends or colleagues. Cycling Projects will provide support and a range of adapted bikes: sports wheelchairs, recumbent trikes, hand cycles and tandem bicycles. 

Leonard Cheshire Disability has also introduced the junior race for those aged 13-16, so now you can make a day of it as a family.

If triathlon is not for you, there are also lots of volunteering opportunities available on the day of the triathlon, such as stewarding and providing vital support to the participants as they cross the line.

To secure a place or to enquire about volunteering go to www.lcdisability.org/tritogether or text TRI to 80878*. A registration fee of £32 for adults and £15 for children and minimum sponsorship apply.