Molly’s Ironman Fundraiser 2025 – Facing the Dragon for Mental Health
“Taking on IRONMAN Wales is my toughest challenge yet. I’ve run three marathons in the past year, but this is taking it to a whole new level.
I’ve raised funds for Mind in the Vale before, running half marathons. It’s a fantastic organisation at the heart of my community and I have a close connection as my mum, Caroline, is the CEO.
I’ve always loved sport and play football for Cardiff Met. I enjoy pushing myself and passionate about running. That’s why I’ve run three marathons in a year – Edinburgh, which was mentally tough, Yorkshire, my fastest, and then the hottest in London.
Now I’m preparing to Face the Dragon. Competing in IRONMAN Wales is a major leap and a huge test of endurance. It is one of the toughest full-distance triathlons in the world, complete with: a 2.4-mile ocean swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. The training has been intense. I swim, cycle, and run several times a week, usually before the day starts.
Before I started training, I’d call myself a ‘holiday swimmer’, so learning the proper technique has been a journey. I’ve been really lucky to have guidance from Christopher Hill at Recovery Lab UK, who’s been brilliant in helping me get to grips with open water swimming. His advice and support have made a big difference to my confidence in the water.
Running will be my strongest leg but it comes at the end. If I miss the cut-off times for the swimming or cycling, I won’t be allowed to finish and that will be gutting. I’m focusing on pacing myself, the transitions and keeping calm under pressure.
My coach, Chris, has been brilliant. I also have the support of my family and friends. A minibus full of them will be cheering me on, including mum. That kind of support can carry you through the most challenging moments. My fiancé, Cameron, attends every event. He helps me organise my schedule and is encouraging. He’s terrific and we make a fantastic team.
I’m determined to finish strongly and raise vital funds for such an important charity.
The need for mental health support has never been greater and Mind in the Vale has always been there, supporting those who need it most. That’s all the motivation I need to push myself and cross the finish line.”
IRONMAN Wales takes place on September 21 in Tenby, and includes:
- 2.4-mile (3.8km) ocean swim from Tenby’s North Beach
- 112-mile (180 km) hilly bike through Pembrokeshire’s breathtaking countryside
- 26.2-mile (42.2km) hilly marathon run through Tenby’s streets
If you’d like to sponsor Molly and raise vital funds for Mind in the Vale of Glamorgan, you can do so via her JustGiving page.
Posted on: 30th June 2025
