Top Cumbrian legal firm, Bendles Solicitors, is renowned for its legal expertise but the 2021 Lakesman Triathlon on June 20 will finally allow the firm to showcase its physical prowess!
Bendles, who are the official bike sponsors for the popular sporting event, has also entered a relay team to take on the half-distance triathlon, a 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run, to help raise money for James Rennie School.
James Rennie is an outstanding school for pupils aged three to 19 who have severe or profound learning disabilities and live in the north of Cumbria.
They specialise in communication which supports pupils to make progress as individuals, but also to achieve together as a community.
Jonty Hanlon, partner at Bendles Solicitors and Local Advisory Board member for James Rennie School, said: “James Rennie’s holistic approach to care and community ethos is closely aligned to the client service Bendles’ staff aim to provide to the Cumbrian community.
“Therefore, it felt very fitting that any donations raised by our triathlon team go directly to the school to help fund accessible playground equipment.
“We’re really pleased with the support shown to our Lakesman team and the amount raised for James Rennie to date.
“The Lakesman is a fantastic sporting event to have taking place on our doorstep.
“We were keen to be involved as one of the official sponsors but also to encourage our staff to get involved in a local event and sports activity. The last year has demonstrated how vital staff wellbeing is to the successful running of the firm.
“If you’re athlete or spectator at the Lakesman Triathlon on June 20 please stop by our stand, located in the athletes’ village, and say ‘hello’.”
The fearless Bendles relay team has been training hard in the snow and sunshine for months and are looking forward to giving it their all on the big day.
Here’s what they had to say:
THE SEASONED PRO:
Michael Johnson, partner at Bendles Solicitors: “In light of lockdown, I’m looking forward to finally getting some swim training in before the event starts.
“I’m used to Olympic distance triathlons, but I haven’t swam this sort of distance before, so the swim leg of the relay is going to be a big challenge.
“Hopefully the weather will be kind.”
THE SUPERMUM:
Rachel Wood, cashier at Bendles Solicitors: “I needed a challenge after having my beautiful son Thomas Junior.
“I was a runner before and completed the Cumbrian Run and other local events a few years ago, so this was a perfect opportunity to dust my trainers off again.
“I love a cheeky Jelly Baby on a longer training run for a sugar rush and of course a bouncing playlist always helps keep me going!”
THE KEEN ROOKIE:
James Worsick, wills and probate solicitor at Bendles Solicitors: “I’ve not competed in a cycling event before, but this seemed like a good new challenge.
“The only distance event I’ve done is the Great North Run. I’m looking forward to crossing the finish line and will be happy so long as I’m not the last cyclist, hopefully Michael’s swim will give me a good head start!”
To support the team and make a donation towards James Rennie’s inclusive playground and sensory shelter visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bendlestriathlon
