A team of average everyday friends have been brought together by a vision, passion and enthusiasm through a common interest in the sport of triathlon; keeping fit, raising funds and having fun with the many challenges and opportunities it has to offer.
Liam Hanlon
EVENT DIRECTOR
Personal Profile:
During my lifelong enjoyment in sport participation, I have been fortunate to represent my club, county and region in swimming, boxing and skiing. I have travelled the world and experienced many diverse environments on expedition experiences with the Army Cadet Force, Royal Marine Reserve and Raleigh International.
The subsequent teamwork and leadership skills have transferred into my working career in the construction industry, gaining BTEC, HNC, CITB, HND and CIOB qualifications. In sport I am a qualified canoeist with the BCU, a Dive Leader with BSAC, and an ASSI ski instructor and coach with Snowsport England and BASI. I hold a current first aid certificate with BASP and have served as Chairman of the Merseyside Ski Club since 2002.
I have gained a BSc Hons. Degree in Sport Science and Biology and awarded full University Colours for Boxing, voted Student Union Sports Person of the Year and winner of the Sport Science and Physical Education Academic Achievement Award. I have competed in sprint, standard, middle and long distance triathlon events, and looking forward to tri-4-life USA 2012.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
Tri-4-life is the realisation of a simple dream to make a 2800 mile none stop journey from the White House to LA, whilst spreading a message and reaching out a hand of friendship from Merseyside to all the cities, communities and individuals that we share this journey with.
A group of average everyday friends have been brought together by a vision, passion and enthusiasm through a common interest in the sport of triathlon. Keeping fit, raising funds and having fun with the many challenges and opportunities it has to offer. tri-4-life is about active participation in a unique sporting event for the intrinsic values that it brings. It's about getting up of your backside and making a difference to your community, your family, yourself and your life whilst raising much-needed funds for those less fortunate.
Personal Profile:
During my lifelong enjoyment in sport participation, I have been fortunate to represent my club, county and region in swimming, boxing and skiing. I have travelled the world and experienced many diverse environments on expedition experiences with the Army Cadet Force, Royal Marine Reserve and Raleigh International.
The subsequent teamwork and leadership skills have transferred into my working career in the construction industry, gaining BTEC, HNC, CITB, HND and CIOB qualifications. In sport I am a qualified canoeist with the BCU, a Dive Leader with BSAC, and an ASSI ski instructor and coach with Snowsport England and BASI. I hold a current first aid certificate with BASP and have served as Chairman of the Merseyside Ski Club since 2002.
I have gained a BSc Hons. Degree in Sport Science and Biology and awarded full University Colours for Boxing, voted Student Union Sports Person of the Year and winner of the Sport Science and Physical Education Academic Achievement Award. I have competed in sprint, standard, middle and long distance triathlon events, and looking forward to tri-4-life USA 2012.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
Tri-4-life is the realisation of a simple dream to make a 2800 mile none stop journey from the White House to LA, whilst spreading a message and reaching out a hand of friendship from Merseyside to all the cities, communities and individuals that we share this journey with.
A group of average everyday friends have been brought together by a vision, passion and enthusiasm through a common interest in the sport of triathlon. Keeping fit, raising funds and having fun with the many challenges and opportunities it has to offer. tri-4-life is about active participation in a unique sporting event for the intrinsic values that it brings. It's about getting up of your backside and making a difference to your community, your family, yourself and your life whilst raising much-needed funds for those less fortunate.
Billy Hanlon
TEAM MANAGER
Personal Profile:
I have been a keen sportsman all my life. Playing football has been my passion since a young boy. Progressing from youth and school teams through to numerous senior sides I have combined my working life at Rolls Royce/Bentley Crewe to play in most positions securing regular first team action for almost thirty years. As part of the team I have achieved local and regional honours in both the Saturday and Sunday West Cheshire and Merseyside Leagues. After a successful playing career it felt natural to give something back to the game as a Manager, leading several teams to league and cup glory. Although involved in triathlon events for the past 20 years. I have recently competed in the Ironman Austria Race and successfully completed the Across Mersey Swim.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
As a family we have been involved in several fundraising events over the past ten years. The good times we have shared as a team, with the support of our families, has been great for everyone involved. I am looking forward to all aspects of this challenge in guiding its success for both us as a team and for the charities we are supporting.
Personal Profile:
I have been a keen sportsman all my life. Playing football has been my passion since a young boy. Progressing from youth and school teams through to numerous senior sides I have combined my working life at Rolls Royce/Bentley Crewe to play in most positions securing regular first team action for almost thirty years. As part of the team I have achieved local and regional honours in both the Saturday and Sunday West Cheshire and Merseyside Leagues. After a successful playing career it felt natural to give something back to the game as a Manager, leading several teams to league and cup glory. Although involved in triathlon events for the past 20 years. I have recently competed in the Ironman Austria Race and successfully completed the Across Mersey Swim.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
As a family we have been involved in several fundraising events over the past ten years. The good times we have shared as a team, with the support of our families, has been great for everyone involved. I am looking forward to all aspects of this challenge in guiding its success for both us as a team and for the charities we are supporting.
Robert Beaver
TEAM SECRETARY
Personal Profile:
Having done very little sport when I was at college, I got the bug 20 years ago and haven’t stopped since. Starting as a plodding runner, I got into open water swimming, cycling then long distance triathlon. Ironman France, Austria, Switzerland and UK lead me to the tri-4-life European ChaIlenge involving a John O’Groats to Lands End bike, cross Channel swim and then a long run from Calais to Brussels.
I now look forward to joining the team for the latest tri-4-life challenge in America. My family say it’s the ‘male menopause’, I see it not as a challenge but a chance to raise awareness and donations for several worthwhile charities.
Most importantly I have the support from 'her in doors'.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I have a work hard, play hard attitude and have been very fortunate in my life, with a supportive family, good health and plenty of opportunities. This challenge has now given me the opportunity to partake in a ‘once in a lifetime event’ for giving something back.
The opportunity to promote the 4 charities, to reach 10,000 young people with the message of ‘healthy living, healthy lifestyle, drug awareness and a responsibility for your own actions’ as well as getting my own children involved, is something that needs to be spread as much as possible.
Roll on tri-4-life!!!
Personal Profile:
Having done very little sport when I was at college, I got the bug 20 years ago and haven’t stopped since. Starting as a plodding runner, I got into open water swimming, cycling then long distance triathlon. Ironman France, Austria, Switzerland and UK lead me to the tri-4-life European ChaIlenge involving a John O’Groats to Lands End bike, cross Channel swim and then a long run from Calais to Brussels.
I now look forward to joining the team for the latest tri-4-life challenge in America. My family say it’s the ‘male menopause’, I see it not as a challenge but a chance to raise awareness and donations for several worthwhile charities.
Most importantly I have the support from 'her in doors'.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I have a work hard, play hard attitude and have been very fortunate in my life, with a supportive family, good health and plenty of opportunities. This challenge has now given me the opportunity to partake in a ‘once in a lifetime event’ for giving something back.
The opportunity to promote the 4 charities, to reach 10,000 young people with the message of ‘healthy living, healthy lifestyle, drug awareness and a responsibility for your own actions’ as well as getting my own children involved, is something that needs to be spread as much as possible.
Roll on tri-4-life!!!
Sean Hanlon
Personal Profile:
I consider myself to be a down to earth kind of guy, easy going ready to give any challenge a go and always up for a good time. I have grown up as part of a large family and the eldest of seven children. During my youth I was an active member of numerous clubs such as the Cub Scouts, Scouts, Church Lads Brigade and the Air Cadets. My sporting talents were developed through swimming, cycling, running, boxing and hang gliding. I have attained local and regional honors in the above sports and work as a Senior Quantity Surveyor in the construction Industry.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
There are many reasons for my involvement in the fantastic event. The social aspects of keeping fit as part of a like minded team have been inspirational in the achievement of my seasonal goals. The opportunity of being part of this event in reaching out a hand of friendship with the message of healthy living and lifestyle is a once in a lifetime experience. To fundraise in all major cities across America, in doing our small bit for those less fortunate is both rewarding and humbling. To complete this challenge along side my father and my son will be an endearing legacy for the future story tellers of my family.
I consider myself to be a down to earth kind of guy, easy going ready to give any challenge a go and always up for a good time. I have grown up as part of a large family and the eldest of seven children. During my youth I was an active member of numerous clubs such as the Cub Scouts, Scouts, Church Lads Brigade and the Air Cadets. My sporting talents were developed through swimming, cycling, running, boxing and hang gliding. I have attained local and regional honors in the above sports and work as a Senior Quantity Surveyor in the construction Industry.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
There are many reasons for my involvement in the fantastic event. The social aspects of keeping fit as part of a like minded team have been inspirational in the achievement of my seasonal goals. The opportunity of being part of this event in reaching out a hand of friendship with the message of healthy living and lifestyle is a once in a lifetime experience. To fundraise in all major cities across America, in doing our small bit for those less fortunate is both rewarding and humbling. To complete this challenge along side my father and my son will be an endearing legacy for the future story tellers of my family.
David Roberts
Personal Profile:
A keen sports person from an early age, I represented school and New Brighton Rugby Club at Colt level. At seventeen, I started boxing for Willaston ABC, representing Merseyside and the North West on numerous occasions. In 1991, I boxed for a British Title at the Royal Albert Hall in the ABA finals. I lost on points deciding then to retire with a top five British rating, I stayed involved with the sport as a coach until the late 1990's.
I ran the Snowdonia marathon in 1993-94-95 and in 2003 in my early forties decided I was still worthy of another challenge and completed the longest day triathlon an iron man distance event. This brought me to my involvement with Mersey Tri, the challenge of iron man Austria, tri-4-Life 2006 and finally tri-4-life USA 2012.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
Together with a good group of fellow athletes and the knowledge that we are raising awareness for the sport, much needed funds for worthy causes and people less fortunate than ourselves, we endeavour to complete the CHALLENGE!
A keen sports person from an early age, I represented school and New Brighton Rugby Club at Colt level. At seventeen, I started boxing for Willaston ABC, representing Merseyside and the North West on numerous occasions. In 1991, I boxed for a British Title at the Royal Albert Hall in the ABA finals. I lost on points deciding then to retire with a top five British rating, I stayed involved with the sport as a coach until the late 1990's.
I ran the Snowdonia marathon in 1993-94-95 and in 2003 in my early forties decided I was still worthy of another challenge and completed the longest day triathlon an iron man distance event. This brought me to my involvement with Mersey Tri, the challenge of iron man Austria, tri-4-Life 2006 and finally tri-4-life USA 2012.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
Together with a good group of fellow athletes and the knowledge that we are raising awareness for the sport, much needed funds for worthy causes and people less fortunate than ourselves, we endeavour to complete the CHALLENGE!
Pat Riley
Personal Profile:
I got started in sport at an early age and found it a great way to both socialise and ‘let off the excess energy’ that often gets kids into trouble. As a youngster I competed at representative level in football, athletics and cross country, activities that I continue today, albeit at a somewhat more leisurely pace.
When settling down to family life on the Wirral 20 years ago it was through my involvement in kick boxing, running at Wallasey AC and then triathlon with Merseytri.
In recent years I have completed a number of half and full Ironman races, swam the Mersey a couple of times and spent a week each summer in the French Alps ‘bagging’ classic climbs from ‘the tour’.
I am one of the few who is fortunate enough to mix business with pleasure, as I teach Sport and PE at Birkenhead Sixth Form College.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
It’s a great chance to do something I love with a great bunch of mates and raise awareness and funds for some really worthwhile causes.
I got started in sport at an early age and found it a great way to both socialise and ‘let off the excess energy’ that often gets kids into trouble. As a youngster I competed at representative level in football, athletics and cross country, activities that I continue today, albeit at a somewhat more leisurely pace.
When settling down to family life on the Wirral 20 years ago it was through my involvement in kick boxing, running at Wallasey AC and then triathlon with Merseytri.
In recent years I have completed a number of half and full Ironman races, swam the Mersey a couple of times and spent a week each summer in the French Alps ‘bagging’ classic climbs from ‘the tour’.
I am one of the few who is fortunate enough to mix business with pleasure, as I teach Sport and PE at Birkenhead Sixth Form College.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
It’s a great chance to do something I love with a great bunch of mates and raise awareness and funds for some really worthwhile causes.
Ryan Hanlon
Personal Profile:
I have been a triathlete for eleven years now, starting at the age of ten. Triathlon has opened so many doors for me and given me opportunities and a way of life. I have recently graduated from University and won a Gold Medal in the ITU Age Group World Championships in Beijing 2011.
I am now focussing my attention on making history within the world of sport.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
As the youngest member of the tri-4-life 2006 team this provided me with so many memories that will stay with me for life. This event will be another tale to tell to the grandchildren in many years to come.
It is also good to know our efforts will be helping others through the use of sport. It doesn’t get much better than that!
I have been a triathlete for eleven years now, starting at the age of ten. Triathlon has opened so many doors for me and given me opportunities and a way of life. I have recently graduated from University and won a Gold Medal in the ITU Age Group World Championships in Beijing 2011.
I am now focussing my attention on making history within the world of sport.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
As the youngest member of the tri-4-life 2006 team this provided me with so many memories that will stay with me for life. This event will be another tale to tell to the grandchildren in many years to come.
It is also good to know our efforts will be helping others through the use of sport. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Ray Hanlon
Personal Profile:
My introduction to adventure sport was as a founder member of the British Hang Gliding Association developing the available science and technology to fly higher, further and longer for over twenty years. I have always kept fit through my work in the construction industry. I enjoy all aspects of the swim, bike and run events. Starting many years ago in the seaside fun runs I have competed in the Liverpool 10K every year since its conception and have completed all run distances up to full marathon. My swimming developed through various pool based events towards the qualification of Open Water Life Guard with the National Life Saving Association. I have completed the Across Mersey Swim for the past two years and finished third in my age group at the Ironman Austria Triathlon Championships.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
To be part of a team spanning three generations with a common goal is superb. To experience this event at sixty seven years old really sums up 'tri-4-life!' Keeping fit and staying healthy is so important, if you can be with friends, enjoy the journey and raise funds for others, what a great life!
My introduction to adventure sport was as a founder member of the British Hang Gliding Association developing the available science and technology to fly higher, further and longer for over twenty years. I have always kept fit through my work in the construction industry. I enjoy all aspects of the swim, bike and run events. Starting many years ago in the seaside fun runs I have competed in the Liverpool 10K every year since its conception and have completed all run distances up to full marathon. My swimming developed through various pool based events towards the qualification of Open Water Life Guard with the National Life Saving Association. I have completed the Across Mersey Swim for the past two years and finished third in my age group at the Ironman Austria Triathlon Championships.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
To be part of a team spanning three generations with a common goal is superb. To experience this event at sixty seven years old really sums up 'tri-4-life!' Keeping fit and staying healthy is so important, if you can be with friends, enjoy the journey and raise funds for others, what a great life!
Martin Pritchard-Howarth
Personal Profile:
I have been an avid sports enthusiast throughout my life, having played football, rugby and hockey to County level and at one time coming second in the Welsh National 100m hurdles Championships.Unfortunately a knee injury ended my serious participation in team sports. University life, Fatherhood and a stressful career in the NHS took precedence until, in 2001, I decided a fresh challenge was required and I entered my first sprint triathlon. I joined Merseyside triathlon club soon afterwards and met the majority of the tri4life team through this, as well as numerous others who’s coaching, encouragement, inspiration and enthusiasm has resulted in me now having completed 11 iron distance races, and one double Ironman as well as numerous shorter events. In 2012, in addition to the fantastic USA cycle challenge I am competing in the Marathon des Sables, The Brutal double Ironman race in Snowdonia, IM Regensburg and my fourth Mersey swim, all in an attempt to raise sponsorship for our supported charities.
I’m easy-going, though competitive with myself. I don’t ever expect to win anything but will give my all. Sport should be enjoyable, which is how I approach training and competition. My most sincere hope would be that my children see me as a role model not to be ashamed of!
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I feel privileged to be a part of this team, that includes my own family, and hope that in some small way we may influence those we meet to consider the benefits and positive impact that active participation, healthy lifestyles and a community spirit can have on us all, extending far beyond the obvious physical advantages of regular exercise.
Few opportunities arise in life to create a lasting legacy for future generations. This supremely challenging and worthwhile event incorporates the combination of brotherhood, charity, altruism and family life whilst extolling the virtues of a healthy, active lifestyle that is the common thread linking our varied careers and shared values
I have been an avid sports enthusiast throughout my life, having played football, rugby and hockey to County level and at one time coming second in the Welsh National 100m hurdles Championships.Unfortunately a knee injury ended my serious participation in team sports. University life, Fatherhood and a stressful career in the NHS took precedence until, in 2001, I decided a fresh challenge was required and I entered my first sprint triathlon. I joined Merseyside triathlon club soon afterwards and met the majority of the tri4life team through this, as well as numerous others who’s coaching, encouragement, inspiration and enthusiasm has resulted in me now having completed 11 iron distance races, and one double Ironman as well as numerous shorter events. In 2012, in addition to the fantastic USA cycle challenge I am competing in the Marathon des Sables, The Brutal double Ironman race in Snowdonia, IM Regensburg and my fourth Mersey swim, all in an attempt to raise sponsorship for our supported charities.
I’m easy-going, though competitive with myself. I don’t ever expect to win anything but will give my all. Sport should be enjoyable, which is how I approach training and competition. My most sincere hope would be that my children see me as a role model not to be ashamed of!
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I feel privileged to be a part of this team, that includes my own family, and hope that in some small way we may influence those we meet to consider the benefits and positive impact that active participation, healthy lifestyles and a community spirit can have on us all, extending far beyond the obvious physical advantages of regular exercise.
Few opportunities arise in life to create a lasting legacy for future generations. This supremely challenging and worthwhile event incorporates the combination of brotherhood, charity, altruism and family life whilst extolling the virtues of a healthy, active lifestyle that is the common thread linking our varied careers and shared values
Kieren Hanlon
Personal Profile:
Upon leaving school I needed to find an interest to help progress my sporting and leisure activities. With a keen interest in the military I decided to join the Royal Marines Reserves, whilst training to obtain the Green Beret I decide to start boxing as a way of enhancing my endurance and stamina. Once I had obtained my Green beret I continued with boxing and had a couple of bouts but during this time in my life at university I realised that boxing no longer presented the type of challenge I desired. As a result of this I looked for another hobby, that's when I discovered Triathlons. Once I had done one or two events I realised what a rewarding experience it was both physically and mentally and soon realised that this was the type of challenge I was looking for. I have now completed Ironman distance triathlons in the UK and Europe.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I feel that to be part of such a magnificent event which would not only be a rewarding experience for myself but one of wide scale in raising money for charities local, regional, national and international.
Upon leaving school I needed to find an interest to help progress my sporting and leisure activities. With a keen interest in the military I decided to join the Royal Marines Reserves, whilst training to obtain the Green Beret I decide to start boxing as a way of enhancing my endurance and stamina. Once I had obtained my Green beret I continued with boxing and had a couple of bouts but during this time in my life at university I realised that boxing no longer presented the type of challenge I desired. As a result of this I looked for another hobby, that's when I discovered Triathlons. Once I had done one or two events I realised what a rewarding experience it was both physically and mentally and soon realised that this was the type of challenge I was looking for. I have now completed Ironman distance triathlons in the UK and Europe.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I feel that to be part of such a magnificent event which would not only be a rewarding experience for myself but one of wide scale in raising money for charities local, regional, national and international.
Phil Young
Personal Profile:
After taking part in charity swims raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Research, I was introduced to triathlon. I have competed in numerous Olympic distance events and have successfully completed three Ironman distance triathlons in France, Austria and Switzerland. As well as triathlon, I have enjoyed the Etape Caledonia Cycle Challenge, and have completed the Across Mersey Swim on two occasions.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
This will be a rewarding opportunity to achieve this fantastic challenge with friends.
After taking part in charity swims raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Research, I was introduced to triathlon. I have competed in numerous Olympic distance events and have successfully completed three Ironman distance triathlons in France, Austria and Switzerland. As well as triathlon, I have enjoyed the Etape Caledonia Cycle Challenge, and have completed the Across Mersey Swim on two occasions.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
This will be a rewarding opportunity to achieve this fantastic challenge with friends.
Angus Law
Personal Profile:
I have taken part in sport as long as I can remember. I played football, rugby, hockey and took part in athletics. When I was at school my passion was golf which became my career and I competed at all levels and still do as a P.G. A Professional. I have always enjoyed keeping fit and have ran many half marathons and full marathons. I enjoy open water swimming and have completed the Mersey swim twice. I have taken part in E-tape cycling events and took up triathlons and have competed in sprint, Olympic distance and completed 4 Ironman events to date. I am also a black belt in T.K.D. Sport will always be a huge part of my life where great friendships are made for life.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
To be part of a worthwhile cause. To raise awareness of living a healthy lifestyle. To raise as much as possible for all the charities. To join a great bunch of lads to follow a dream.
To help the team achieve our goal. To set an example to my children and others. To share in a vision to achieve as a team.
I have taken part in sport as long as I can remember. I played football, rugby, hockey and took part in athletics. When I was at school my passion was golf which became my career and I competed at all levels and still do as a P.G. A Professional. I have always enjoyed keeping fit and have ran many half marathons and full marathons. I enjoy open water swimming and have completed the Mersey swim twice. I have taken part in E-tape cycling events and took up triathlons and have competed in sprint, Olympic distance and completed 4 Ironman events to date. I am also a black belt in T.K.D. Sport will always be a huge part of my life where great friendships are made for life.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
To be part of a worthwhile cause. To raise awareness of living a healthy lifestyle. To raise as much as possible for all the charities. To join a great bunch of lads to follow a dream.
To help the team achieve our goal. To set an example to my children and others. To share in a vision to achieve as a team.
Dave Walton
Personal Profile:
I have been actively involved in sport all my life. Football was my first sport playing competitively from a very early age in junior and youth teams, progressing to senior football and playing many years in the West Cheshire League. After I finished playing football I became a keen runner representing Wallasey Athletic Club in various Cross Country and Road races. I have participated in numerous marathons in Europe and America. I have been captain of Wallasey AC for the last ten years and am a qualified Athletics coach. In 2006 I entered my first Sprint Triathlon and have subsequently completed Olympic Distance, Half Ironman and Ironman events.
I am also a keen Alpine Mountaineer completing many summits in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps including Mont Blanc and the Monte Rosa. I completed the trek to Kilimanjaro and in 2010 I had a wonderful time in the Himalayas summiting two mountains over 6500m high.
I am very much looking forward to the tri-4-life USA Challenge 2012
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I believe my outlook character and personality aligns with the overall ethos of this event. I feel I would be an asset to the team and contribute to its success. I am hard working, sociable and will play an integral part in the team. It will be a life changing event and welcome the opportunity to be involved.
It is a unique sporting occasion and a wonderful way to raise money for those less fortunate.
I have been actively involved in sport all my life. Football was my first sport playing competitively from a very early age in junior and youth teams, progressing to senior football and playing many years in the West Cheshire League. After I finished playing football I became a keen runner representing Wallasey Athletic Club in various Cross Country and Road races. I have participated in numerous marathons in Europe and America. I have been captain of Wallasey AC for the last ten years and am a qualified Athletics coach. In 2006 I entered my first Sprint Triathlon and have subsequently completed Olympic Distance, Half Ironman and Ironman events.
I am also a keen Alpine Mountaineer completing many summits in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps including Mont Blanc and the Monte Rosa. I completed the trek to Kilimanjaro and in 2010 I had a wonderful time in the Himalayas summiting two mountains over 6500m high.
I am very much looking forward to the tri-4-life USA Challenge 2012
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I believe my outlook character and personality aligns with the overall ethos of this event. I feel I would be an asset to the team and contribute to its success. I am hard working, sociable and will play an integral part in the team. It will be a life changing event and welcome the opportunity to be involved.
It is a unique sporting occasion and a wonderful way to raise money for those less fortunate.
Phil Walton
Personal Profile:
Sport has been an integral part of my life for as long as i can remember. Growing up i played competitive football, cricket and badminton, representing school teams and clubs. I completed the Duke of Edinburgh's award at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels by the age of 16 and ever since I have been involved in delivering the award to young people by training them and taking them on outdoor expeditions in mountainous areas of the UK. After deciding to hang up my football boots a new challenge was required so I was introduced to triathlon by my dad and straight away I became hooked! I have competed in all distances from sprint to Ironman and not only do i thoroughly enjoy the competition but, more importantly, the friendships and the bonds I have made through spending time running, cycling and swimming with a great bunch of guys.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I have worked with lots of young people in schools and youth clubs both in the Uk and in Australia, and i see Tri-4-Life 2012 as a fantastic opportunity to help raise much needed funds and awareness for a range of charities that share my ethos of helping those less fortunate. Sport has provided me with countless unforgettable memories and no doubt USA 2012 will be the most memorable.I consider this a wonderful opportunity to be a part of something special. Not only would I gain a great deal from being involved but I also think I would be able to make a big contribution to a fantastic team as my character and personality fit in with the spirit of the project
Sport has been an integral part of my life for as long as i can remember. Growing up i played competitive football, cricket and badminton, representing school teams and clubs. I completed the Duke of Edinburgh's award at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels by the age of 16 and ever since I have been involved in delivering the award to young people by training them and taking them on outdoor expeditions in mountainous areas of the UK. After deciding to hang up my football boots a new challenge was required so I was introduced to triathlon by my dad and straight away I became hooked! I have competed in all distances from sprint to Ironman and not only do i thoroughly enjoy the competition but, more importantly, the friendships and the bonds I have made through spending time running, cycling and swimming with a great bunch of guys.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I have worked with lots of young people in schools and youth clubs both in the Uk and in Australia, and i see Tri-4-Life 2012 as a fantastic opportunity to help raise much needed funds and awareness for a range of charities that share my ethos of helping those less fortunate. Sport has provided me with countless unforgettable memories and no doubt USA 2012 will be the most memorable.I consider this a wonderful opportunity to be a part of something special. Not only would I gain a great deal from being involved but I also think I would be able to make a big contribution to a fantastic team as my character and personality fit in with the spirit of the project
Paul Thelwell
Personal Profile:
I am 58 years old and have been participating in sport most of my life. At school I earned honours for 100m hurdles and cross country.
In the early 80's I concentrated on marathons and half marathons. Running the London Marathon in 1985.
Midlife crisis took hold at 55! I started raising money for Claire House, raising £70,000 to trek to Everest Base Camp, Trek to the Grand Canyon, kayak with blue whales, swim with great white sharks in South Africa and cycle across countries like Canada, Jordan, Vietnam and Cambodia.
I took up Triathlons in 2007 and completed my first Ironman in 2009. Up to now, I have completed 3. I am a member of Wallasey Athletic Club and recently returned from the Himalayas having trekked and climbed to the top of Island Peak, 6,130m, and Mera Peak, 6476m.
I am looking forward to helping the Tri 4 Life Team to cycle across America later on this year.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I am a great believer in the ethos of encouraging people, young and old, about the benefits of exercise. I am fit and healthy and helped raise tens of thousands of pounds for local and national charities, and with my team of helpers can help others in the team to raise much needed funds.
I am 58 years old and have been participating in sport most of my life. At school I earned honours for 100m hurdles and cross country.
In the early 80's I concentrated on marathons and half marathons. Running the London Marathon in 1985.
Midlife crisis took hold at 55! I started raising money for Claire House, raising £70,000 to trek to Everest Base Camp, Trek to the Grand Canyon, kayak with blue whales, swim with great white sharks in South Africa and cycle across countries like Canada, Jordan, Vietnam and Cambodia.
I took up Triathlons in 2007 and completed my first Ironman in 2009. Up to now, I have completed 3. I am a member of Wallasey Athletic Club and recently returned from the Himalayas having trekked and climbed to the top of Island Peak, 6,130m, and Mera Peak, 6476m.
I am looking forward to helping the Tri 4 Life Team to cycle across America later on this year.
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I am a great believer in the ethos of encouraging people, young and old, about the benefits of exercise. I am fit and healthy and helped raise tens of thousands of pounds for local and national charities, and with my team of helpers can help others in the team to raise much needed funds.
John Thelwell
Personal Profile:
I have always been keen in sports whether it be football, roller hockey, swimming and cross country. I was a member of the boy’s brigade then the air cadets up until the age of 16. Unfortunately it all stopped when i started work, i was working away from home in Ireland i was more focused on women and living for the weekend.. My life changed 3 years ago when I decided to go and support my dad and friends in their first Ironman triathlon. I rode my motor bike to Austria to watch and at first thought I thought these people are crazy!! But now I am the crazy one?? I watched the race, seen some of the competitors who finished and thought 'if they can I can’ got home signed up for Ironman Switzerland and here I am now, training for my 3rd Ironman! Life is great! :)))
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I truly believe in what the team is about and what we are trying to achieve. It is an opportunity to be part of something special ‘a once in a lifetime experience’. A chance to not only help myself but others around me. I can fully commit to whatever is needed to complete this challenge including fundraising, training or any other activities.
I have always been keen in sports whether it be football, roller hockey, swimming and cross country. I was a member of the boy’s brigade then the air cadets up until the age of 16. Unfortunately it all stopped when i started work, i was working away from home in Ireland i was more focused on women and living for the weekend.. My life changed 3 years ago when I decided to go and support my dad and friends in their first Ironman triathlon. I rode my motor bike to Austria to watch and at first thought I thought these people are crazy!! But now I am the crazy one?? I watched the race, seen some of the competitors who finished and thought 'if they can I can’ got home signed up for Ironman Switzerland and here I am now, training for my 3rd Ironman! Life is great! :)))
Reasons for wanting to take part:
I truly believe in what the team is about and what we are trying to achieve. It is an opportunity to be part of something special ‘a once in a lifetime experience’. A chance to not only help myself but others around me. I can fully commit to whatever is needed to complete this challenge including fundraising, training or any other activities.