Support charity triathletes, public urged

And the organisers of the Hartlepool Borough Council-run event are asking people to support their fundraising efforts wherever possible.

One such competitor is Kieran McBride, 46, from Eaglescliffe, who is taking part to help Evie Hope Whittaker reach a £75,000 fundraising target to pay for potentially life-altering immunotherapy treatment in Germany.

In 2016, Evie, 19, who is also from Eaglescliffe, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. She was left unable to move the left side of her body due to the after-effects of a stroke caused by the tumour.

Over the past few years, she has received many forms of treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery to try to shrink and kill the tumour. While these managed to suppress the tumour, Evie isn’t currently receiving treatment. The immunotherapy available in Germany is a new form of cancer therapy that works by helping the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.

Kieran, a buying director for a retail group, said: “Twenty years ago I bought my first home and was fortunate to have great neighbours – baby Evie and her mum Paula. It’s heartbreaking that this beautiful young lady - with everything to live for and look forward to - has been subjected to this cruel illness.

“I decided to take myself out of my comfort zone and I have been training hard to raise money for Evie so she can go to Germany.

“I have always been a keen swimmer and for years - as a youngster - I swam competitively as a member of Middlesbrough Swimming Club. I always believed that I couldn’t run but, last year, I decided to take up running to keep fit. I continue to attend a weekly park run. My first run was 32 minutes but my PB is now 22:20. I have also been training on a bike and whilst it has been a challenge I have managed to complete a 60-mile ride.

“The hardest part has been joining the 3 disciplines together, although I constantly remind myself that what I am doing is nothing compared to what Evie has endured and continues to endure.

“I never thought I could run and never imagined myself on a bike. However, I have loved the training and I am looking forward to completing my first triathlon this weekend. I’m hoping that this could be the start of the triathlon bug for me.”

People can find out more about Evie and donate to her fundraising appeal at www.facebook.com/eviesmission

The Hartlepool Big Lime Triathlon will take place in and around Hartlepool marina and Seaton Carew. It comprises a 750m open water swim in Jacksons Dock, a 20km cycle ride on mostly flat, closed roads and a 5km run along the promenade.

Kay Stokes, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Triathlon Activator, said: “This is a very moving story and we would like to wish Kieran and all of the other competitors taking part in the Hartlepool Big Lime Triathlon to raise money for good causes the very best of luck with their fundraising efforts. We would encourage people to support them wherever possible.

“We are aware of a number of people who are competing to raise money but we would be happy to hear from others so that we can potentially highlight their good causes. They should email us at feelgood@hartlepool.gov.uk

“Kieran is a great example for other novices wishing to give triathlon a go, and we would urge anyone interested in getting involved in the sport to contact us and we would be more than happy to help them.”