Taking the ultimate test for charity, athletes from across the region are set to show real grit for this year’s Tyneside triathlon (North East Sunshine Triathlon). Nearly 200 fitness enthusiasts will pull on their trainers for the Chronicle’s charity, the Sunshine Fund.
In the ultimate test of endurance, they will swim 400m, before cycling 25km. And to round off proceedings they will hit the roads for a 5km run, in Ponteland, Northumberland, on August 15.
This year, Olympic swimmer Chris Cook (pictured above) will be on hand to spur on competitors, giving them extra support. Chris competed in Beijing 2008 as a member of the 4x100m relay team, which finished in sixth place. He also competed in the 100m breaststroke, finishing 15th.
Chris said: “It’s great to get involved in a triathlon because it involves all three disciplines. “I was part of the event last year and it’s a really fun event. It shows
just what sport is really about. “The triathlon helps individuals achieve their individual goals, which is what sport is about.
“The Sunshine Fund does a brilliant job and it’s a really valuable part of the region.” Each year hundreds of people compete in the Chronicle’s Sunshine Run. But this year, the charity will hold its third triathlon for needy youngsters and hopefully raise thousands of pounds for the charity.
Fundraiser Debbie Wilde said: “Each year we have received tremendous support for the charity, and I hope this year will be the same.
“I like the fact this event is open to all, so it will attract people who may not have done one before, but want to have a go.”
As the Chronicle’s official charity, the Sunshine Fund has helped thousands of youngsters across the region.
It helps improve the lives of sick and disabled children by providing special equipment. More than £1 million worth of equipment has been donated to children in the North East by the Sunshine Fund since 2005.
Entry fee is £20, or £30 for a team of three. You can enter on the day from 7am, and the event gets underway at 8am. For more information or if you would like an entry form, call Debbie Wilde on (0191) 201 6090 or email debbie.wilde@ncjmedia.co.uk