It gives me immense pleasure to inform you that Mr Baldy (remember him from last year?), now to be known as Neil, who bravely battled cancer for his 2nd time last year has stuck to his word and 5 minutes ago entered his first Novice Triathlon on 5th June. To put this in context, last year we almost lost Neil as he contracted pneumonia when his immune system was shot to pieces. This is when I suggested the challenge to him - it gave him something to think about other than needles and drugs.
Neil's idea of fitness is going to the bowls or the football - to watch. He hasn't swam since he was a kid or cycled for that matter and the last time he ran it was because he had "the trots". So last night we went for his first training session in the pool, after his doctor had approved. Neil's arms were sore after 50m but we took it easy and by the end he had even attempted front crawl. This is quite a challenge and those that know him are in complete disbelief when he says he is going to swim 400m, cycle 13km and run 2.5km. This is making him all the more determined. Your support for Neil would be greatly appreciated. All you need to do is post a comment giving encouragement on this blog (just open a google account it's easy). Neil's too modest to have his own blog, although I wish he would, so I'll keep you informed on how he's doing. This is an inspirational story - come on Neil!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Great news - absolutely fanastic that Neil/Mr Baldy has committed to a Novice Triathlon. After all his troubles last year it is great to hear Mr Baldy (with your encouragement, Derek)is committing to something us lesser mortals have yet to commit to.
ReplyDeleteFor my part (having recently just beem spoilt by lots of swimming in a Carribean climate) I promise to swim more regularly until the weather improves and I can undertake some sensible exercise outdoors.
All the best
Nick
Tell Neil I'm looking forward to seeing him on In the pool , triathlon is an addiction more expensive than cocaine, but more satisfying ! Fresh meat is always welcome ! All the best Jack
ReplyDeleteNick - thanks for the encouragement and I know Neil will really appreciate it. Delighted to hear you will be continuing your swimming. Much as I hated it at the start I have grown to love it and it does wonders for the fitness levels as Neil is about to find out!
ReplyDeletei hope you enjoy the training as much as derek ! which novice ? may see you training .
ReplyDeleteGareth
Jack after Neil settles in gently to exercise I will be delighted to introduce him to you.
ReplyDeleteGareth, Neil is entering the Stirling Novice Triathlon. What a challenge! He's a complete beginner but a fighter so watch this space and maybe he'll turn up at one of our training sessions in due course. Thanks for posting a comment.
ReplyDeleteNeil I dont know you but knowing Derck-he has high standards so to be in his list of high achievers is worthy of comment. Doing this after such a severe illness is fantastic so keep going in the training it will inspire others as well.
ReplyDeleteKen
No pressure then Ken! He's going to give it every chance and he'll be a winner.
ReplyDelete