Following a 5am breakfast of blueberry porridge and banana on toast, I was ready for the 8am start to my day’s challenge. I started with an hour’s cycling, to be followed by an hour’s swimming and back to the bike – right through to 4pm.
My local gym had lent me a spin bike for the event and this was set up on the pool side of Papplewick School, where I am a Year 4 teacher.
The first cycle session flew by – I had plenty of visitors popping in and out of the pool, both staff and pupils – and by 9am I was jumping off the bike and making my way to a makeshift changing area on the poolside, ready for my hour’s swimming. I had 3 members of staff join me and before I knew it, it was time to revert to the bike once again.
Throughout the next few hours, I had numerous friends, parents and pupils come to visit and help pass the time. The bike slots gave me a welcome opportunity to refuel and take on fluids.
The day went surprisingly well and my last cycle slot was almost pleasant. I think my legs were on auto pilot by this point! However, I was very glad to reach my last swim slot (3-4pm) – the last ten minutes in the water did seem to drag on forever!
I was delighted to complete my challenge in memory of my brother, Richard – an RAF Officer who passed away in his sleep at just 29 years old.
I was equally delighted to have surpassed my £1,000 target to be split between CRY and a favourite charity of my brother’s.
Vicky Credland
