Completing a full Outlaw triathlon is no small feat. Known as an Ironman-distance challenge, the event includes a 3.8km swim, a 180km cycle and a full marathon of 42.2km, covering a total of 140.6 miles.

Having only taken up triathlon 14 months earlier, Fred had already completed seven races, including sprint, standard and 70.3-mile distances. Taking on the full Outlaw triathlon was the next step: a “mammoth personal challenge” and an opportunity to raise money for Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance.

The cause was especially meaningful for Fred, who sees the impact of LNAA’s work through his role with the charity. Air ambulances in England are funded by charitable donations, and their crews play a vital role in delivering critical care to patients quickly in pre-hospital settings. His professional connection to LNAA, combined with personal experiences of air ambulance care, made fundraising for the charity especially important.

He said the charity’s work was close to his heart after losing a cousin in a motorcycle collision, while also knowing a friend and work colleague whose life was helped by the response of an air ambulance crew.

Preparing for the event required six months of dedicated training, research and sacrifice. Early mornings were spent swimming in pools and lakes, cycling long distances and running in all weather conditions. Alongside work, family life and everyday commitments, the training plan also involved learning about nutrition, hydration and the equipment needed to complete the challenge safely.

Race day brought its own difficulties. The cycling section proved particularly tough, with the need to stay hydrated, maintain salt intake and manage cramps while facing strong headwinds, technical turns and gravel at junctions.

One of the most memorable moments came during the marathon, when family and friends could be seen cheering from the spectator stand. The support of volunteers along the course, who handed out drinks and energy gels, also became a lifeline during the 10-hour and 20-minute challenge.

“Fundraising for LNAA helped me get through the training during the months before the event, and on the day, it gave me the motivation to cross the finish line for a great cause.”

Crossing the finish line was an emotional moment and marked the achievement of an extraordinary personal goal while raising vital funds for the charity he supports through his work. Fred thanked everyone who sponsored the challenge, saying the support meant a great deal both personally and to the patients LNAA treats every day.

Encouraging others to support LNAA through fundraising, Fred added that taking on a challenge for the charity is hugely rewarding and helps raise the funds needed to continue its lifesaving work. Although this was his first time fundraising, it will not be his last. Fred’s final amount raised has been an amazing £1,532!

Fred’s achievement is not only a remarkable personal milestone, but also a powerful example of how supporters can turn determination into lifesaving impact for LNAA. After finishing 6th in his age category, he has now qualified to represent Team GB at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi this November.