Liverpool cancer and stroke survivor takes on triathlon
A Liverpool cancer and stroke survivor has lost three stone and overcome the threat of diabetes by taking up triathlon training ahead of Tri Liverpool this August. Phil Mottram, 65, a retired school teacher from Childwall, in Liverpool, was spurred into action in October 2015 following a severe warning from his doctor, and is urging others to join him and take up the challenge of a triathlon.
Phil says:
“The stroke and cancer were things, I considered, out of my control. I’d always felt very lucky to recover from both, but had since taken my health for granted. The diabetes warning was a huge shock. I realised that this was something I could tackle myself – it was well within my control to take my life back and prevent this from happening to me.”
Phil joined his local Liverpool Lifestyles Aquatic Centre in Wavertree having won a membership through a competition run by British Triathlon and Lifestyles. He started by swimming, and walking to and from the centre, and recognised the improvement in his energy levels within weeks. Phil has lost over 3 stone in weight to date, has more energy, sleeps better, and has made a conscious effort to improve his diet for the good of his health.
Phil added:
“I was apprehensive about starting the training as I am a nervous runner but the sessions were geared up for people of all abilities and I quickly fitted in, learning new skills and really enjoying the training. Thanks to the changes to my diet and the good work and support of staff at GO TRI sessions at Lifestyles, my health is no longer an immediate concern.”
Mark Lancaster, area manager for Lifestyles in Liverpool and triathlete, says:
“Phil is a great example of how sport can help you take back control of your health. Lifestyles Centres and British Triathlon have worked in partnership over the last few years to encourage and inspire local people to take part in Tri Liverpool each year.
“Tri Liverpool is broken down into various distances for different abilities with the GO TRI+ beginner wave a great challenge for anyone new to the sport. We run GO TRI sessions every week at Lifestyle Centres across Liverpool to help get race ready.”
CEO of British Triathlon, Jack Buckner, says:
“It is inspirational to hear a story like Phil’s and see how he has used triathlon to improve his health, energy levels, and set himself a goal. We are excited to see our community come together on race day at Tri Liverpool; from future Olympic hopefuls, right through to first time triathletes. Tri Liverpool is a spectacular and iconic course and the perfect place for any beginner to start their triathlon journey.”
Wendy Simon, cabinet member for culture, tourism and events, says:
“There is no better time to take part in Tri Liverpool than this Olympic year. Liverpool has a reputation for showcasing world-class sporting events, with Tri Liverpool a real highlight on our city’s sporting calendar, whether competing or spectating. We hope to see as many local people as possible joining the beginner wave and giving it a try on August 14.”
Open water swimming sessions for beginners taking part in Tri Liverpool have been organised at Liverpool Watersports Centre at Queens Dock on Saturday July 16 and July 30. The sessions will take place from 09:30 – 11:00am and be led by an expert coach from local triathlon club, Mersey Tri and Lifestyles GO TRI trainers. The sessions will allow triathlon beginners to familiarise themselves with the Tri Liverpool swim course, have a chance to take part in open water swimming and gain valuable insight and training ahead of Tri Liverpool on August 14, 2016.
Sessions cost £5, which can be paid on the day or before hand by calling the Watersports Centre on 0151 708 9322. Wetsuits can be hired on the day, ranging from £5-10. To book on to a course, please email info@britishtriathlon.
This year’s Tri Liverpool race is already full in the standard and sprint distances as the sport continues to gain momentum in Merseyside. A limited number of beginner and relay places are available, with potential triathletes urged to sign up at www.TriLiverpool.com.