Redbridge House Completes Inspiring Triathlon Challenge

Colleagues and people we support at our charity’s Redbridge House Supported Living Service, successfully completed an inspiring triathlon challenge earlier this month, raising more than £13,000 including Gift Aid, to enhance the service’s garden and create even more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year.  

The challenge brought together people we support, colleagues, family members and local supporters in a fantastic display of teamwork, determination and community spirit. Participants were also encouraged by Deputy Mayor of Portsmouth, Councillor Suzy Horton, and Deputy Lady Mayoress, Jo McDougall, who attended the event and spoke to everyone before the race, wishing them luck and recognising the dedication shown by all involved. 

After weeks of training and preparation, participants took on the triathlon with enthusiasm and pride, supported every step of the way by those around them. The day began at Redbridge House, where everyone set off along a cycling route before continuing on foot past the Mountbatten Centre. The challenge concluded with an outdoor swim at Hilsea Lido, where participants crossed the finish line to cheers and celebrations, marking an incredible achievement for everyone involved.

For many of the people taking part, the event was about more than completing a sporting challenge. It was an opportunity to build confidence, achieve personal goals and show what is possible when people are supported to pursue experiences that matter to them. The triathlon was made possible through months of planning, fundraising and preparation by the people we support, colleagues, families and friends, all working towards a shared goal. Together, they turned an ambitious idea into a memorable community event that celebrated inclusion and achievement.  

Funds raised will help further develop the outdoor space at Redbridge House, creating more opportunities for people we support to enjoy social activities, sensory experiences, relaxation and time outdoors throughout the year.  

While the challenge may be complete, there is still time to support the project. Every donation will help build on the success of this remarkable event and create even more opportunities for the people who call Redbridge House home. You can still support the team through their fundraising page here. 

Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Suzy Horton said, “It was a real pleasure to attend the triathlon alongside my Deputy Lady Mayoress and see so many people coming together to take part in this challenge and support Redbridge House. The enthusiasm, commitment, determination and community spirit on display were truly inspiring. Congratulations to everyone who took part, volunteered or contributed to raising the funds needed to create an amazing, accessible garden that residents and visitors will enjoy all year round.” 

Maddie Kendall, Service Leader for Region 3 said, “This triathlon has been a brilliant team effort, bringing together the people we support, their families, friends and colleagues around a shared goal. It has been inspiring to see the determination and commitment shown by everyone involved, from months of preparation and fundraising to crossing the finish line on the day. We are incredibly proud of everyone who took part and supported the challenge. Together, they have achieved something truly special, raising funds to enhance life at Redbridge House and create a lasting impact for the people who call it home.”