Wrexham Teen Takes on Triathlon for Cancer Research

Erin Smith, 16, completed a 70.3 mile triathlon in July, to remember loved ones her family has lost to cancer. 

Erin’s challenge started with a 1.9km swim at her local Total Fitness centre, before getting in gear for a lengthy 90km bike loop, finishing in the picturesque Alyn Waters country park. Finally, she took on a 21km run, the same length as a half marathon, through woodland trails and finishing her challenge back at Alyn Waters. Erin completed her epic endeavour in an impressive 6 hours and 45 minutes, despite wet and windy weather!

The challenge comes in memory of Erin’s Gran who she lost to cancer seven years ago, and more recently a close family friend passed after a lengthy battle with cancer. The task marks a distance milestone for Erin, who has completed triathlons before which have been shorter due to her young age. She has been generously supported by family and friends, raising £1,500 for vital research.

Erin said: “In the run up to the challenge I was training whenever I could fit it in - before and after school, all while revising for GCSEs too, but I still got in the hours I needed to.

“The challenge was hard and pushed me further than ever before, but those who suffer from cancer go through much more every day. I know many people are affected by the disease and I have lost many people close to me, so I want to help support the research as much as I possibly can.

“I would encourage everyone to challenge themselves and push themselves out of their comfort zone, and if some money can be raised whilst doing that, I’m sure North West Cancer Research and anyone affected would greatly appreciate it.”