A determined Worcester woman is set to take on a grueling triathlon to mark her 50th birthday year – and to raise funds for a hospice close to her heart.
Rebecca Widdowson, Managing Partner at Hallmark Hulme Solicitors, will embark on her 70.3-mile Half Iron Woman Triathlon challenge this Sunday, September 12 – despite training being set back by weeks of illness.
The challenge will see her swim 1.2 miles, cycle 56 miles, and run 13.1 miles in eight-and-a-half hours – all to raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice.
“I have been preparing for this challenge since January, and my fitness levels are good enough to give it a proper go – despite being hit with a sickness bug for a couple of weeks and not being able to train,” said Rebecca.
“For my 50th birthday I decided on a challenge which frankly terrifies me. I am not good at running, and thinking about a half marathon at the end of this is a huge mental obstacle.
“My inspiration is the care, compassion and dignity the hospice provides for so many local families going through end-of-life care. The hospice cared for my late father-in-law in his last hours, and my friend’s mum earlier this year.
“It’s a vital support for people with serious, progressive illnesses and their families. As a family we were supported with bereavement counselling.”
Joining Rebecca for the cycling section of the challenge will be Mark Dodwell and former Worcester Warriors player Jonny Arr. And, she will be accompanied by her personal trainer, Clive Sanders, for the half-marathon.
The challenge will take place around Droitwich and Worcester, with the swim at Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre.
So far, she has raised more than £4,800 for St Richard’s Hospice – and hopes to reach a total of £5,000.
Sofia Gunster, Fundraiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We are in awe of Rebecca, and the incredible challenge she has set herself.
“To take on such a tough challenge – especially after a sickness bug and with a fear of running – is truly inspirational.
“We are so grateful to Rebecca for raising such a fantastic amount for our care. Without the support of people like her, we couldn’t continue to fund our services to patients, families, and bereaved people across Worcestershire.
“Thank you, Rebecca – we’ll be cheering you on this Sunday!”
To support Rebecca’s fundraising, visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/HalfIronwomanChallenge.
St Richard’s Hospice cares for adults with a serious progressive illness, improving their quality of life from diagnosis, during treatment and to their last days. It also supports their loved ones.
Each year the hospice team supports more than 2,900 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.
St Richard’s is an independent charity and relies on donations and gifts in Wills for the majority of its income with the remainder funded by the NHS.
For more information about St Richard’s Hospice visit www.strichards.org.uk.
