On Sunday 15th June, I took on my final fundraising challenge for Power2Inspire, a sprint triathlon relay at Stewartby Lake. It marked the end of a personal chapter thatâs been filled with adventure, challenge and deep purpose.
This time, I wasnât alone. I had two brilliant teammates:
- My wife, Lindsay, who stepped in as a last-minute addition to the team, cycled 20km with incredible determination, and earned her very first triathlon medal â something sheâs rightly proud of.
- Our CEO, Alex Laybourne, who ran 5km with heart and good humour (despite the heat!).
- I swam the 750m open water leg, and, as ever, felt both the thrill of the water and the privilege of being able to represent our charity.
Why this triathlon mattered
Over the years, Iâve taken on numerous challenges to raise funds and awareness for Power2Inspire, from kayak adventures and tennis marathons to open-water swims. Each one has had the same goal: to show whatâs possible, to break down barriers and to champion inclusion through sport.
This triathlon was different. Not because the swim was harder (though it was!), or because Iâm getting older (which I am!), but because I knew it would be my last. The final physical fundraising challenge I take on for this charity that means so much to me.
And that made it feel even more special.
A modest goal â and we nailed it!
Now, Iâll be honest: our goal wasnât to win, it was simply not to come last. And⌠we didnât! Mission accomplished.
Why I started
When I founded Power2Inspire in 2013, I had one goal in mind: to ensure that no one is left on the bench. As someone born without fully formed arms and legs, Iâve experienced firsthand what exclusion feels like. I also know how transformative sport can be when it’s truly inclusive.
Since those early days, Power2Inspire has reached over 81,000 people through inclusive sports days, PowerHouseGames, and Games2Inspire in schools. Weâve brought people of all abilities together – laughing, learning, competing and connecting.
I couldnât be prouder!
Looking back, and looking forwardâŚ
This final challenge wasnât about records or speed. It was about community. About celebrating the people whoâve supported us â friends, colleagues, volunteers, donors and event partners.
What's next?
While I may be stepping back from physical fundraising, Iâm not stepping away from Power2Inspire. Iâll still be delivering our wonderful events, championing the cause and sharing our story.
But for now, Iâd love your help to finish this challenge strong.
If you havenât yet donated, please consider supporting our JustGiving campaign. Every pound goes directly towards inclusive sports events for children and communities across the UK.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me, not just on this challenge, but over the years. Youâve made a real, lasting difference.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you would like to support us in our mission to âembed inclusive sport in the sporting, education and community landscapesâ then we would love to hear from you. We are always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. Click the button here to find out more.
