‍ From Doggy Paddle to Kona:

Help Me Get to the Ironman World Championships

Twelve years ago, I couldn’t swim. I couldn’t ride a road bike (unless you count wobbling around the block with the brakes permanently squeezed).

Running? I could run a bit—but usually while injured and loudly questioning all my life choices.

Now, somehow, I’ve qualified for the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii.

Here’s what that means

‍♀️ 2.4-mile (3.8km) ocean swim

‍♀️ 112-mile (180km) bike ride through lava fields

‍♀️ 26.2-mile (42.2km) marathon run

All to be completed in less than 17hrs

I’m 57. Not your typical triathlete. Fewer than 20% of Ironman finishers are women, and even fewer are women over 50. But here I am. Powered by stubbornness, a dream, and an industrial-strength sports bra.

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Why I Need Your Help

After qualifying at Ironman Austria in June, and managing to secure a sought after slot for Kona. There were only 50 slots for all the women taking part and only 3 in my age group. My name was called and with a resounding YES that the next town heard I finally got my hands on that coveted coin. Before I could fully take in I had achieved my dream, I was immediately directed to an iPad to pay the eye-watering £1,300 entry fee. No deferments. No refunds. Just four months to prepare for the biggest, hardest, most awe-inspiring race of my life.

Now I need help covering:

Flights to Hawaii

Accommodation

Bike transport (because airlines treat your bike like it’s made of diamonds)

Kit, nutrition, food, and… a lot of chafing cream

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Want to Support? I’ll Send You a Postcard from Paradise!

To say thank you, I’ll be sending real postcards from Kona to anyone who donates £25 or more.

You’ll receive: A handwritten postcard from Hawaii

A bit of race-day inspiration (and maybe a sweaty selfie stamp)

My eternal gratitude

Whether it’s £5, £25, or just a share or kind word, you’re part of this journey with me.

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Final Words

I’ve cried in goggles, made lifelong friends in porta-loo queues, and learned that “just keep moving” isn’t just race advice—it’s a fairly sound life philosophy

Thank you for helping me chase something I once thought was impossible.

Because in Ironman—and in life—anything is possible.