Brothers smash target at Dambusters Triathlon

Matt and Michael decided to raise funds for their local Riding For The Disabled Centre, the Mount Group, based at Somerby Livery Centre.

The brothers were inspired to help the charity which Matt’s five-year-old son Sam regularly attends.

By competing in The Dambuster Triathlon at Rutland Water, they had aimed to raise about £2,000 for the Group, but have more than tripled their target.

Word soon spread and support took off with friends, family and work colleagues who have so far donated more than £7,500 to the charity via the MyDonate website which remains open to receive donations until mid-July.

Matt said: “Sam is at his happiest when he is swimming or riding, and the team at the Mount Group do a great job in supporting him. This is why we decided to support them by raising these much-needed funds.”

The Challenge included a 1.5km swim in the very cold Rutland Water at 7.20am, followed by a 42km cycle ride around the reservoir before culminating with a 10km run.

Matt finished in 2hr 32mins, while Michael finished only 11 minutes back.

The Mount Group caters for over 50 riders a week comprising adults and children with physical and learning disabilities from the Melton and Oakham areas. The Group is entirely self-funding and run by unpaid volunteers.

To donate, go to https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/mattparkinson1

* For more information, visit the charity’s website at www.mountgrouprda.org.uk or call 0845 241 6357