Our very own Michelle Fairclough is to take part in this year’s Ironman UK in Bolton, Lancashire this weekend. A member of Astley and Tyldesley Road Runners-since 2007, ‘Miche’ has made this year’s Ironman Challenge one of her most important goals to date.
This Year, the Ironman UK course consists of the following:
2.4 mile swim in Open water at 6am in the morning at Pennington Flash
112 mile hilly bike route over Rivington Pike and Belmont
Followed by running 26.2 miles on an undulating lap of Bolton Town Centre
Raising funds for Once Upon A Smile, a charity that provides amazing support for families following the loss of a loved one, Michelle is confident that she will do everything to complete the weekends events, even possibly securing a place to compete in the World Championships
In what has been an intensive and focused training regime for Michelle, training daily whether on 100+ mile bike rides, swimming the equivalent of several English Channels or running marathons, it’s clear that she is one tough cookie and we are sure she will prove her ability.
Only just recently Michelle took part in the Chester Triathlon/Half-Ironman, ending with a very respectable time of 5hrs 35mins. A fabulous effort, reflecting the true grit and perseverance it takes to be an Ironman contender.
Taking in the incredible Lancashire scenery, Michelle will be joining approximately 2000 others looking to qualify for one of 40 positions for the 2016 World Ironman Championship being held in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii later this year.
Since Boxing Day 2015, Michelle has been putting in long hours, pushing her body and mind to the limit, training for this weekend and we are 150% behind her! Go Miche!!
Join in the days events and see Miche and the many other participants take on this mammoth test of endurance, strength and determination! Spectators are welcome and the best place to be to catch the action will be Bolton Town Centre this Sunday the 17th July from 4pm onwards.
NEWS UPDATE!!
After a gruelling 14+ hours, Michelle Fairclough crossed the finish line of the 2016 Ironman UK in Bolton, England yesterday. With the terrrific support from friends, family and co-workers pushing her on, particularly Vanessa Thompson and Claire Todd, Michelle had all of our support either in person or following her progress through social media.
With the times in, Michelle performed fabulously, ending with the number 22 ranking in her division; 112 place within all women competing and overall position of 1133 from the 2000+ competitors who began the challenge. Here are the pictures of Michelles successful day:
Details of how much money has been raised for Once Upon A Smile will be revealed soon! Well done Michelle!!
