Racing for Research: Hever Athletes Take on Triathlons to Support Alzheimer’s Research UK
Every year, the Hever Castle Triathlon brings together athletes of all ages, abilities, and motivations. For some, it’s about testing fitness. For others, it’s about ticking off a bucket-list achievement. And for many, it’s about something even bigger: raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK, our official charity partner.
This year, we are proud to have over 80 athletes racing at Hever for Alzheimer’s Research UK—a powerful community of competitors all united by one cause: to help find a cure for dementia. Among them are three incredible individuals with stories that inspire us all: Mark, Gareth, and Kat.
Mark: Four Races, One Mission
If one race sounds tough, try four in one weekend. Mark will be taking on the Sprint Plus, Starter Triathlon, and a 1-mile swim on Saturday, before lining up again on Sunday for the Olympic distance triathlon.
It’s all part of his commitment to raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
This challenge comes hot on the heels of something extraordinary: earlier this year, Mark completed 24 triathlons in 24 hours. You can read about this record-breaking feat in British Triathlon’s feature article.
As he swaps the treadmill of that challenge for the trails, lakes, and castle backdrop of Hever, Mark is once again proving that determination and a cause close to the heart can push us beyond limits.
Gareth: Returning to Racing, Fuelled by Purpose
For Gareth, Hever will mark a comeback after an eight-year break from triathlon. Once a GB Age-Grouper, life events, injuries, and family commitments pulled him away from racing. In that time, his mum’s battle with Alzheimer’s has deepened.
“She was a wonderful singer, a supreme organiser, and my mum. All of that has been stripped away,” Gareth shared. “She very much wanted to hide her situation from the world, which made helping her so hard. She is now in a lovely home with full-time care, but the stigma and lack of awareness around dementia is one of the reasons I’m fundraising and talking about Alzheimer’s.”
Gareth’s race at Hever is dedicated to breaking that stigma and shining a light on the urgent need for research. You can read more of his story and support his efforts via his JustGiving page.
Kat: From Couch to 5K to Olympic Triathlon (with Roadie the Dog!)
Kat’s journey is one many will relate to: what started as a couch to 5K has snowballed into marathons, ultras, and now, her first Olympic triathlon at Hever Castle. Earlier this year, she also raced at Belvoir Castle, making 2025 a true season of milestones.
Alongside her trusty (and very speedy) dog, Roadie, she’s tackling this challenge in memory of her grandparents, Mary and Reg, who both lived with dementia.
“The blisters are real, and the nerves are too—but every step I take, every cheer from the crowd, propels me forward,” Kat said. “This isn’t just about racing, it’s about remembering, and about helping to create a future where families don’t have to suffer like mine did.”
Her JustGiving page is full of humour, determination, and love for the #TEAMARUK community—proving that fundraising can be as inspiring as the training itself.
Racing Together for Alzheimer’s Research UK
Mark, Gareth, and Kat are just three of the more than 80 athletes at Hever this year proudly racing for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Their courage, commitment, and compassion embody the very best of the Castle Race Series community.
By taking on these challenges and raising funds, they are directly supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK in their mission to find a cure, fund groundbreaking studies, and ensure no family faces dementia alone.
Join #TeamARUK
If you’re inspired by these athletes, you can support them directly through their fundraising pages—or consider making your own race with Castle Race Series count for something bigger by joining #TeamARUK.
Find out more about Alzheimer’s Research UK and how you can get involved.
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