Concerned by the plight of those who have had to leave their homes in Syria, and inspired by the Brownlee brothers, on Sunday 29th April, Sam (11) and Ned (8) Sherwin each completed a challenging bespoke triathlon raising over £1400 for Syria Relief.
Sam rode his horse four miles from Glapthorn to Oundle School’s Sports Centre, where he then swam two lengths of the School pool after which he rode his trike (with some steering assistance) the half mile home. Ned cycled six miles, swam three lengths of the pool and ran a longer route of a mile home.
As part of Oundle School’s Community Action programme, four Oundle pupils take Sam riding each week. Sam has Cerebral Palsy (CP), caused by damage to his brain following his premature birth, which affects his control of his muscles. Horse riding, cycling and swimming are not only physically therapeutic for Sam but also enjoyable, good exercise and a chance to get into the countryside.
Sam commented, “We wanted to help Syrian people who have had to leave their homes because of the war. We hope our fundraising makes a difference to some of them.”
Ned added, “It was difficult but I am so glad that I managed to complete it.”
Mum, Camilla Sherwin, said “We are so grateful to everyone who supported Sam and Ned, helping them to complete their challenge and raise so much for Syria Relief. It is a small charity that gets help to where it is needed.”
Head of Community Action at Oundle School, Liz Dillarstone added, “The boys chose to complete their triathlon as part of ‘Have a Go Day’, a Community Action activity afternoon at Oundle School for adults and children with physical disabilities and/or learning difficulties.
We are extremely proud of them both, not only for completing their challenges but for raising a significant sum of money for this worthwhile charity.”
Syria Relief (www.syriarelief.co.uk) was established by a group of friends of Syrian heritage in response to the beginning of the Syrian crisis. Using a network of volunteers on the ground in affected areas, the group get help to those who need it most, focusing on delivering medical aid, educational initiatives, food and non-food items, water and sanitation infrastructure development and orphan support.