Friends take on charity triathlon challenge

Ben Dench, along with friends Sarah Chambré and George Bates, are taking on an Olympic size challenge on Saturday, November 9, that will test endurance and stamina while raising much needed funds for local children’s heart charity, the Children’s Heartbeat Trust.
Sarah Chambré, Ben Dench and George BatesSarah Chambré, Ben Dench and George Bates
Sarah Chambré, Ben Dench and George Bates

The three friends will take part in a triathlon that sees them travel from Lisburn to Carrickfergus covering a total distance of 32 miles. The route will take them through the city streets of Lisburn and Belfast, onto picturesque countryside and stunning coastal scenery to Carrickfergus Castle with the final leg ending at Loughshore Park, Newtownabbey.

Ben’s daughter, Ruby Dench, who was born with a congenital heart defect, passed away earlier this year whilst on a school trip in Scotland, aged 11. The three friends are taking on this challenge in memory of Ruby and all funds raised will go to Children’s Heartbeat Trust, which supports children with congenital heart disease in Northern Ireland.

The triathlon will see Sarah take the plunge at Lisburn Swimming Pool for a 1.5km swim, followed by Ben at the head of the peloton in a 40km cycle to Carrickfergus Castle. The final leg will see George complete the triathlon with a 10km run.