Triathlon tribute to therapist's mother (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Triathlon tribute to therapist's mother

A CIRENCESTER sports therapist swam, ran and rode his way across London for Cancer Research UK on Sunday.

Wayne Anderson, 35, who runs the Cotswold Sports Therapy Clinic in Chesterton, entered the London Triathlon in tribute to his late mother, Edna, who died of breast cancer 18 months ago.

"My mother spent many years of her life raising money for charity," said Wayne, "so I feel I should carry on in her footsteps.

"So far I've raised £600 but I hope to bring in about £1,000.

"I'm also going to be donating 50 per cent of August's takings from the therapy clinic."

Sunday's triathlon consisted of a 1,500m swim around London's Docklands, then a 40km bike ride to Westminster and finally a 10km run. Some 8,500 men and women took part in the event.

Wayne, who trained by completing two slightly shorter triathlons, has always been involved in sport - but this was something new.

"I played semi-professional football when I was younger," he said, "but I've never really done anything like this before.

"It was a warm day and I was really nervous before the start, but I managed it in 2hrs 42, half-an-hour quicker than I expected. It was a great experience."

Wayne added: "I'll be collecting the rest of my sponsorship money as soon as my legs stop aching."

Anyone who would like to contribute to Cancer Research UK can contact Wayne on 01285 654910 / 07919 440462 or the charity directly on 0207 242 0200.