Neil conquers epic marathon in memory of mum

Superfit Neil Williams raised more than £1,500 for St Catherine’s by taking on an Ironman challenge in memory of his mother Karen exactly a year to the day since she died.

Neil had always wanted to take part in the gruelling competition, so when the date of this year’s event coincided with his mum’s first anniversary, he decided it was meant to be.

The Ironman Challenge is an annual one day event designed to put your physical and mental strength to the test across three different formats.

Competitors start with a 2.5 mile swim, and continue with a 112 mile cycle before finally completing the journey with a 26 mile marathon – all in one day!

This year, the event landed on the 19^th July, one year to the day since Neil’s mum Karen died from breast cancer. In the months before her death she had enjoyed attending day therapy at St Catherine’s Hospice. Neil wanted to mark the poignant anniversary to not only remember his late mother, but to also raise vital funds to a cause that will forever be close to his heart.

“I always wanted to complete an Ironman as it is one of the hardest one day physical and mental sporting events there is,” said Neil after successfully completing the demanding challenge.

“But life kept getting in the way and I always found a reason not to enter it. My mum passed away at home surrounded by her family on 19th July 2014, so when I found out that Ironman UK 2015 was to be held on the first year anniversary of mum’s passing, I felt I had no other option than to do it in her name, and raise money to help St Catherine’s as the work they do is truly amazing.

“She spent her final few months as an outpatient there. She enjoyed her time there taking part in arts and crafts and generally spending time with the amazing staff and other patients.”

Training six days a week for 12 months can keep you more than occupied, but Neil was also faced with the responsibilities of a full-time job, as well as his one-year-old son, which certainly kept his hands full!

But Neil fully believes the hours on the bike, in the pool, and on the road training were more than worth it- thanks to the amazing support he has received over the last 12 months.

He added: “I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored me. The generosity of people is truly amazing and I am overwhelmed by all the support I have received.”

Share with your friends!