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*Edit: Congratulations and thank you to James who completed the Croyde Ocean Triathlon and has raised an amazing £1,588!*

Local 17 year old James from Barnstaple is preparing to take on a major endurance challenge as he competes in the Croyde Ocean Triathlon to raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

On Sunday 12 July, James will tackle the renowned Croyde Ocean Triathlon, one of the South West’s most iconic endurance events, in support of CHSW, which helps make the most of short and precious lives for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Despite having no background as a runner, cyclist or swimmer, James is determined to push himself to the limit for a cause that is very personal to him.
His fundraising journey began last summer when his best friend, Harry, was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma at just 16 years old during their GCSE year. Motivated to support Harry and his family through an incredibly difficult time, James and his friend Lewis committed to running 5km every day throughout August. Their efforts captured the support of the local community and raised more than £10,000 for Harry and his family.

Reflecting on what inspired his latest challenge, James said:
“I am not a runner, cyclist or swimmer, but I am motivated to do my best in this challenge after my best friend was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma during our GCSE year last summer. We were only 16 when Harry got diagnosed and I witnessed first-hand the effect illnesses in children can have, not only on the person but on everyone around them. That experience made me realise it can happen to anyone, no matter how young or healthy you are."

“After raising money for Harry and his family, I wanted to continue making an impact and thought there was no better charity than Children’s Hospice South West. The work they do is so valuable and deserves as much support as possible.”

James has been training hard ahead of the event helping him prepare for the challenge that awaits in Croyde. He added: “Training is going well so far. I recently completed the Bude Triathlon, which was a great opportunity to prepare for the big one in Croyde on 12 July. I would love to thank everyone who has supported me so far and donated to my JustGiving page. I’m really looking forward to competing for an amazing charity that does the very best work.”

The Croyde Ocean Triathlon, based at the beautiful, award-winning Putsborough Sands, is one of the region’s most popular sporting events. The course showcases some of the South West’s most spectacular coastal scenery and provides a fitting backdrop for James’ fundraising challenge.

Poppy Harrop, Area Fundraiser for Children’s Hospice South West, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to James for choosing to support Children’s Hospice South West through this fantastic challenge. His determination, compassion and commitment to helping others is truly inspiring. On behalf of everyone at CHSW, I would like to wish James the very best of luck for the Croyde Ocean Triathlon and thank him, along with everyone who has supported his fundraising, for helping us continue our vital work.”
 

To support James and his fundraising efforts for Children’s Hospice South West, donations can be made via his JustGiving page James Sampson is fundraising for Children's Hospice South West