Quest for fitness leads to world chapionship

Jun 3 2008 by The Journal

MOTHER-OF-TWO Ellen-Ann Finnighan, 55, is enthusiastic about keeping fit.

She cycles to her job as a GP on the outskirts of Durham and for the past few years has been competing internationally in triathlons.

Ellen-Ann, of Durham City, is one of a growing number of people doing that as triathlon is the UK’s fastest growing sport.

A combination of swimming, cycling and running, usually in that order, it is seen by many as an ideal way to keep fit.

Ellen-Ann, who with her husband Ian MacKenzie has two student sons aged 22, and 26, dismisses the idea triathlon is just for young people.

"You can work at your own pace. In our triathlon club there are all ages and abilities," she says. "It’s not about competition, it’s about keeping active and having fun."

As a GP, Ellen-Ann has an additional interest in people exercising. "I think it is tremendously important to have exercise, no matter what age you are," she says. "Keeping active is one of the best things you can do for your health.

"Not many people are aware how much getting fit can help your overall health and reduce your risk of illnesses such as heart disease and even cancer."

Liz Lamb, 51, agrees. "Triathlon is a great sport because it works all different kinds of muscles, giving your body a full workout that running alone wouldn’t give," she says.

Liz had not done any running since school days but five years ago, found herself training for the Great North Run.

She says: "I was working at St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham at the time and I ran to raise money for them."

Liz enjoyed the running so much she joined a local club, the Elvet Striders. It was through talking to other runners she found out about the triathlon club and decided she’d give that a go as well. She bought a bike and then learned to swim.

Last year she competed in her first triathlon and came second. In her second and third races she came first.

Friends suggested she try entering the World Championships, which this year are in Vancouver.

Both she and Ellen-Ann have qualified and are hoping to add to their medal collections this year.

"Of course it would be lovely to win something," Ellen-Ann says. "It’s always nice to win but it really is the taking part which counts!"