A Liverpool engineer has successfully completed three triathlons in less than eight hours, raising over £1,000 for the Stroke Association.
Murraigh McDonald was inspired to take on three triathlons for the charity after his grandmother, Maura McDonald, had a severe stroke when she was 78.
Despite the dedication of her close family, 10 years after her stroke, Maura sadly passed away.
Murraigh’s first triathlon took place on Sunday 26 June 2016 at Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire and the second and third, which took place over the same weekend, were held in Anglesey.
In total, the 41-year-old completed a 2200m swim, 129km bike ride and running distance of 23km.
He said: “My first triathlon in Cholmondeley Castle was great. Everything went to plan and I crossed the finish line five minutes under my target time.
“The second and third triathlons in Anglesey were a real test.
“Sunday brought choppy sea, wind and some mean sand dunes, which made every element of the event a real challenge.
“My lovely neighbour has also just lost her husband after he had a stroke.
“His battle was relatively short, but it came as a timely reminder of the impact stroke has on people’s lives.
“The emotional impact as well as the physical disabilities caused by stroke, really do take their toll.
“I know that my fundraising efforts will make some difference to people in the same situation, and maybe even help to prevent a family going through such a difficult time.
“I’ve learned a lot about myself this year, but mostly I’ve realised how incredibly generous people can be.
“I’m overwhelmed to have raised over £1,000 for the Stroke Association. To know that we’ve changed some people’s lives is great feeling.”
It’s not too late to sponsor Murraigh: visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Murraigh-McDonald for more details.