Ironman Challenge Achieved

It was a breathtaking couple of days. As you can see from the first photo, Lyndon was characteristically relaxed at first. The swimming was fast and Lyndon made an accomplished start. Then the cycling started! The weather was not entirely kind, as it was windy on the east-bound leg of each 8-mile lap. It also poured with rain at one stage. But Lyndon was completely focussed on the task, which lasted from 11.40am Sunday until about 3.15am Monday. I was lucky to join the support team and cycle much of this time alongside Lyndon. Somehow he maintained his energy and kept going, keeping a decent pace. Then he switched to the chair (see photo).

This was the hardest stage! Lyndon hadn’t had time to master his technique in training, and of course the first half of the marathon stage took place in the early hours of Monday morning which must have felt exhausting. Sunrise was beautiful but the weather was cold. Then, in the second half of the marathon, Lyndon found his technique and the pace quickened. I remember the conversations between 6am and 7am as to whether we thought he could do the challenge in under 24 hours. But as Monday morning progressed, it seemed possible. And so the final 90 minutes or so were flat out. And then he did it – with 30 second to spare!

The Liverpool John Moore team were extremely impressive. The scientists and students were meticulous with their planning and execution, and the volunteers on the day were superb in cheering and supporting Lyndon and the team. The camaraderie was amazing and everyone contributed in some way or another to ensuring the momentum was maintained. The end was highly emotional and hard to describe (though Chris Baron did a great job over the 24 hours).

I know that Lyndon and the team are hugely grateful for the support of The Jessica Bethell Foundation, as indeed are we at Meningitis Now. Earlier today the fundraising was at £17,940, so Lyndon has done brilliantly on that front too. Your donation has made a huge difference – thank you.