MS Group’s Triathlon

by | 13 August 2019 | Retford, Support Group

Team Retford MS (participants in the Multiple Sclerosis Group’s Triathlon) achieved an amazing 1,256 miles of exercise in just one week in June, and so far, has raised over £1,000 for the purchase of two oxycycles for the Bassetlaw NHS Neuro Rehab Team. More importantly, members of the group have increased their exercise, they enjoyed it, they feel better for it, and have spurred supporters, friends and family into taking more exercise too. The main aim of the special triathlon was to highlight the group’s summer campaign of ‘exercise is good for all’ and to set an example by doing it themselves.

Huge generosity and support has been shown by local businesses and community groups — sponsors John Beattie and Lilly Adkins of Move Better — Run Better Limited and Christine and Irwen Martin of The Corner Fridge Company, The Imperial Tea Rooms Retford who hosted the cycling event on the group’s behalf, Bike Peddlars of Retford who kindly supplied energy food and drinks for the cyclists and top rate bike servicing, Taste Bistro who took part in the 10-mile walk in Clumber Park, Sarah Cox from Fresh Physio who provided much appreciated assistance in the pool, Retford Leisure Centre who provided a two-hour pool session and hosted the MS group stand manned by members, Retford Lions Club who officiated the swimathon, Retford Life for helping spread the word, and many of the local Facebook groups who shared the news and updates too. A special mention for younger supporters, who each have a parent with MS; Tom Kay age nine who led the countdown to the start of the cycle ride, James Thomas age nine with Olivia Kay age 13 who swam a total of 132 lengths and eight month old Owen McEwen dressed in orange and white who became the Group’s mascot for the day.

It would seem that the ‘Team Retford MS’ style triathlon could be the first of its kind among MS groups throughout the East Midlands and might be used as an example to inspire other organisations, which is fantastic feedback for everyone who spent extra time and effort to make the event so successful.

The regular monthly meeting for support, updates and catch up over a decent cuppa, takes place at The Well, Hospital Road, on the first Friday of the month. The next meeting will be on Friday 2nd August, from 11.00am to 12.30pm. For more information about the group, please email retford@mssociety.org.uk