Meet our Everyday Superheroes and Sidekicks

This Series is for all the unsung Superheroes who boldly face what life throws at them and are looking to take on super sporting challenges with their own unique superpowers! And let’s not forget their trusty Sidekicks who are by their side through thick and thin.

A huge thank you to our below participants for sharing their story to show that the Superhero Series is for everybody.

Superhero Ray Lowrie

Hometown: Honiton, Devon.

Your chosen mission: at Home Winter Wonderwheels Challenge.

Your disability and how it challenges you: Left leg below knee amputation, wearing a prosthetic I feel able to do anything again.

Sporting Super stripes: 2014 London Invictus Games 1 x Gold and 2 x Silver medals for indoor rowing 2017 indoor rowing world championship (Boston USA) Gold & trophy hammer. Concept2 indoor rowing world records and British records for the following times and distances, 7 records broken 21 times: 5000m, 6000m, 30 minutes, 10000m, 60 minutes, half marathon and full marathon.

Why you want to take part: I love to show that “Disability doesn’t have to be disabling” I like to push myself to prove this and show others around me.

Superhero Series lasting impact: Sport has always been part of my life. I have always kept myself at a good level of fitness but without regular focused intense training I feel like I lose my Superpowers.  I continue to train and compete where possible and the gym is my safe place for mind body and soul.

Your kryptonite: I don’t mean to sound overconfident and cocky! but I’m happy to smash this challenge really going for it daily. Slowing down and saying No! Is my Kryptonite.

Gadgets of Choice: My rowing prosthetic leg has been designed to allow full range of movement from the ankle when bending at the knee.

Your Superpower: My Superpower is, I never give up! I push myself to what I feel are my limits but won’t be bound by them, I push my heart rate to 100% in most sessions and have on the odd occasion found my sight and hearing start to shutdown, a clear sign of pushing too hard but as long as I’m able to push on I won’t quit! “Once a Marine! Always a Marine!”

Superhero Pippa Chamberlayne

Earth years: 11 

Hometown: Hackney, London

Your chosen mission: At Home Superhero Challenge

Your disability and how it challenges you: I have a genetic blip which means my ligaments are too bendy and its very easy for me to break bones and injure joints. I can’t really do sports at school which is why its so awesome that I can be part of the Superhero Series.

Sporting super-stripes: I’ve been skiing for 8 year and I love it. Unfortunately, I broke my knee last time I went, but I hope I can try again next year!

Why you want to take part: I want to raise money so that people with limb problems can be helped.

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: I want to be involved in a sport event

Your Kryptonite: My limbs get quite painful and sometimes my brain tells me that its more painful than it actually is, which is a bit annoying

Gadget/s of choice: my ankle brace and my Super crutches, with suspension, lights and a horn!!

Your Superpower: My ability to make people laugh so much that they cry. I’m very positive and good at finding happy distractions. I have a puppy called Thor and an older dog called Maggie who give me cuddles if I’m sore or sad. I have brilliant friends, who laugh and joke with me and aren’t afraid to make me smile about my latest injury!

Superhero Alice Lee

Why you want to take part: I want to keep active whilst shielding at home and try something new for the Super Hero Tri. I just love the feeling of taking part in events.

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: Not being able to go out has been very different for me. I want to show others that whatever happens you can still take part.

Your Kryptonite: Assisted walking is difficult for me as I find it hard to hold my body upright.

Gadget/s of choice: For the at Home Superheroes I will be using a treadmill & My mum to help me. When it comes to the SuperHero Tri I will be using a Kayak for the swim, an outdoor walker for the run & my Delichon Delta attached to my mums bike for the cycle.

Your Superpower: My smile, laugh, cheering & clapping which powered us round many races.

Superhero Clare Gibson

Earth years: 45

Hometown: Harwell, Didcot, Oxfordshire

Your chosen mission: At Home Winter Wonderwheels

Your disability and how it challenges you: I have a rare autoinflammatory condition called Behcet’s Disease. It affected my joints in my lower back and legs which means I use crutches and a wheelchair to be independent. After serving in Kosovo in 1999 I also developed PTSD.

Sporting super-stripes: I took up Archery a few years ago and absolutely love it. I shoot a recurve bow from my wheelchair and belong to a club. I like to handcycle, take part in events raising money for the charities who have supported me.

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: Sport and fitness has been part of my life since my late teens. I strive to be the best I can in all aspects of life, living it to the max. Taking on sports challenges inspires me to push past boundaries and be the best I can be.

Your Kryptonite: When my condition flares up

Gadget/s of choice: Top End Force 3 Handcycle

Your Superpower: A positive mental attitude

Superhero Kelis Alazne

Earth years: 7

Hometown: Northampton

Your chosen mission: At home Superheroes

Your disability and how it challenges you: I have quadriplegic cerebral palsy which effects my whole body. My Sidekick mum & I have worked hard to achieve the impossible! We’ve achieved things we never thought possible.

Sporting super-stripes: Indoor skydiving, archery, rock climbing, high ropes, indoor sledging & my favourite of all is adventuring through the woods unaided as I couldn’t do this until recently.

Why you want to take part: To show off the results of my hard work

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: It’s shown me that anyone can take part in sporting challenges & achieve their goals. I love feeling strong & free. Exercise has to be a massive part of my life. My goal is to continue to make exercise fun & exciting.

Gadget/s of choice: My AFO’s help me to stand tall & my specialist trike that gives me so much freedom!

Your Kryptonite: No control - My body feels different & works differently on a daily basis.

Your Superpower: Being a Diva, Sassy & determined. I demand what I deserve from life!

Superhero Kieran (AKA K-man)

Earth years: 10

Home county: Staffordshire

Your chosen mission: At Home Superheroes

Your disability and how it challenges you: I have Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA), which affects my balance and coordination. I sometimes use a walking frame and I have a manual wheelchair that I’ve ‘pimped my wheels’ and added some really cool Transformer and Captain America ‘skins’. I am due to get my first electric wheelchair soon!

Sporting super-stripes: I have many! I’ve won lots of medals at gymnastics competitions, I have a 300m backstroke certificate in swimming, horse riding rosettes from the local RDA and cricket medals!

Why you want to take part: Most people have never heard of Ataxia, nor understand what it is and I feel it is important to raise awareness. You should try anything. You don’t know your strengths or abilities until you do!

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: This is the first major UK sporting event I have entered. The ‘At Home Superheroes’ challenge has pushed my boundaries and my body to the extreme.

Your Kryptonite: Fatigue, steep hills and hay fever.

Gadget/s of choice: My super cool green recumbent Hase Tret trike from Quest 88 called the K-mobile!

Your superpower: My determination and positive attitude. I never give up! I have a wicked sense of humour, with a lot of sarcasm, and I love to play practical jokes and make people laugh. On my trike, along the straights, I am also super speedy!

Superhero Jasmine

Your Kryptonite: Epilepsy and being cold. I love to be warm.

Gadget/s of choice: My wheelchair helps me live my life to the full.

Your superpower: I have the most amazing smile and laugh that no one can resist!

Superhero Super-ears Sarah

Why you want to take part: First of all because it’s not just for one person, it means being in group and meeting people. I enjoy that. It also feels good being able to help by raising funds through it and, of course, because it’s FUN! I love a good challenge.
Superhero Series’ lasting impact: The one thing that I love the most about sports and exercise is that it makes me feel as an equal. I’m like everyone else and I like that feeling. Also, I enjoy knowing that it helps my muscles to be stronger and helps me control my weight.

Your Kryptonite: Apprehension.

Gadget/s of choice: I couldn’t do everything I do without my amazing electric wheelchair and my super smartphone.

Your superpower: There is no sound on earth that can escape my ears, I can hear everything! My second superpower is feeling young forever. I don’t think there is necessarily a need to get old with age and I like spreading that feeling to everyone.

Sofa Superhero Kris

Why you want to take part: Why wouldn’t I want to be a part of something so amazing? Seeing people from all walks of life coming together with one shared purpose. To be the best they can be.

Your Kryptonite: Self doubt.

Gadget/s of choice: My wheelchair & head mic!

Your superpower: My never-failing smile.

Superhero Hannah (AKA Dr Pops)

Your Kryptonite: My Bed. Once I’m in it, it’s almost impossible to leave!
Gadget/s of choice: My amazing powerchair ‘Merida’.

Your superpower: I am a ridiculously energetic doctor!

Superhero Laura

Your Kryptonite: My anxiety which I try not to let bring me down.

Your superpower: My inability to give up.

Superhero Ian

Your Kryptonite: My fatigue.

Your superpower: My super will power.

Superhero Georgia

Your Kryptonite: Brain cancer.

Your superpower: My fabulous smile and laugh.

Superhero Owen

Why you want to take part: I want to raise money for the charity Freedom for Wheels. They gave me the wheelchair that changed my life. It is what led me to be able to participate in sports and gave me confidence as a full-time wheelchair user. I want to help them help others like me!
Your Kryptonite: My pain. I am learning how to live with it, but it’s hard sometimes.

Your superpower: I am determined. Whatever I do, it is with a smile and a laugh.

Superhero Charlie

Your Kryptonite: Infections and distractions!

Your superpower: Knowledge because I love to learn. And bravery! I won't let anything beat me!

Superhero Sue

Why you want to take part: The exhilaration of achieving something and not letting my condition beat me!
Your Kryptonite: Worry that my legs would fail me.
Gadget/s of choice: A recumbent trike.

Your superpower: Stubbornness.

Superhero Raz

Why you want to take part: I want to take part again because I can’t wait to do the race using my new motorised wheelchair! Last year my Sidekick pushed me around the course.
Your Kryptonite: Bad weather!

Your superpower: I’m always happy and have a positive attitude.

Superhero Sue

Why you want to take part: I want to take part because it is good fun, I meet new people and I love getting medals!
Your Kryptonite: One year it was very rainy, which made it difficult, but I still managed to complete the race!
Gadget/s of choice: the adapted bike that we hire and having a Sidekick to ride the bike and do the race.

Your superpower: I’m always happy and I love helping other people.

Superhero Marvin

Why you want to take part: It gives me a SUPER sense of achievement every time I compete and start and finish the race.
Your Kryptonite: My nerves! My hands slipped of the joystick last year and I slipped from first to third place.
Gadget/s of choice: A turbo boost/rocket (my electric wheelchair and my Sidekick.)

Your superpower: Never giving up!

Superhero Tamsin

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: I’m a bit of a nervous nelly, especially since my spinal fusion in 2016. Having rods in my back makes me wary of doing anything dangerous but this event proves that having a disability doesn’t mean you can’t take part.
Your Kryptonite: I am a wuss! I will need to dig deep and be brave so we can go faster.
Gadget/s of choice: The ‘Mobiloo’! If they weren’t there with their ‘Changing Places’ bench and hoist, we wouldn’t be able to join in. I can’t go out for the day if there’s nowhere I can ‘go’.

Your superpower: Eyes that speak my words!

Superhero Sally

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “Having been undiagnosed for 27 years, I want to understand more about myself and find sports that I'm able to join in with like the Superhero Series. I also hope to take part in Winter Wonderwheels later this year.”
Your Kryptonite: “The heat! It hugely exacerbates my POTS and in last year’s heat wave I could barely leave the house. I'm hoping for a much cooler summer this year!”
Gadget/s of choice: “I'll be using my recumbent Ice trike, Toothless, after the dragon who protects his disabled rider! My wheelchair Freeda (freedom) for the push section, and a float for the swim as my shoulders dislocate so I need to just kick.”

Sally’s Superpower: “Determination and a love of frogs!”

Superhero Henry

Why you want to take part: “I did both Superhero Tri and Winter Wonderwheels last year with Sidekicks and they were such fun, I can’t wait to be a part of the next one. The atmosphere was fabulous and it is great to feel part of something so special.”
Your Kryptonite: “The weather! And waiting at the start line.”
Gadget/s of choice: “My bike and Sidekicks!”

Harry’s superpower: “My enthusiasm and love of with being other people.”

Superhero Arianne & Sidekick sister Emily

Why you want to take part: “I love doing activities and spending time with my family so the Superhero Series events are perfect for me. We also want to fundraise for the incredible charity Challengers who have helped me and my family for many years.”
Your Kryptonite: “Getting distracted by all of the amazing supporters and other Superheroes!”
Gadget/s of choice: “My wheelchair for the run, an adapted bicycle for the cycle and lots of floats for the swim!”

Arianne’s superpower: “Making everyone smile.”

Superhero Fraser

Why you want to take part: “We wanted to help raise some pennies for scientists who are trying to find a medicine for poorly muscles.”
Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “When they told my Mummy that I had Duchenne she didn’t think I would be able to take part in sports. I proved her wrong when I crossed the finish line at Dorney Lake! I can do anything. There is always a way.”
Your Kryptonite: “As I was relying on my sister to push me, I had to keep telling her to push me faster! We giggled all the way round!”
Gadget/s of choice: “I love my powered wheelchair – it’s my legs. I drive it very fast and use my horn to make people move out of my way! I’m a boy with places to go and people to see!”

Fraser’s superpower: “My determination to live life with the biggest smile.”

Superhero Bart

Why you want to take part: “When I was born, doctors said I’d never walk and that I may never sit up. I started walking aged three and have managed to take part in various sports and activities, including running, football, table tennis and swimming. I am always looking for new challenges to push the boundaries of my disability and this is a real challenge for me. I’m doing the Full Solo Tri for the third year running and hope to beat my best time of 4:12:31 in 2019.”
Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “I have always enjoyed sport and although I am slower than most people, I love the challenge of any sporting event. Superhero Tri is such a great way for anyone with any disability to push themselves to their limits and this is why I enjoy taking part.”
Your Kryptonite: “The 20km cycle is the hardest part of the course for me.”
Gadget/s of choice: “I ride a handcycle which has been specially adapted for me.”

Your superpower: “Determination and perseverance

Superhero Jamie

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “I love to be able to see people setting their own challenges and smashing their goals. Whether the event is taking you 10 minutes to complete or 10 hours, everyone is there to be involved and to have a great time.”
Your Kryptonite: “Rain! Thankfully it was a dry day.”
Gadget/s of choice: “I used my Blade XT around the course.”

Your Superpower: “Whether it's a 10ft wall or a muddy pit, I'm able to conquer any obstacle. Throw it at me!”

Superhero Jamie

Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “Mum pushes me round Parkrun to practice doing 5km. My Sidekicks need to be fit enough to help me!”
Your Kryptonite: “Getting cold, especially my nose and ears!”
Gadget of choice: “A Kimba Cross buggy, complete with Superhero cape, Mrs Santa and two reindeer (Mum, Dad and little brother Isaac).

Jamie’s superpower: “A massive grin and excellent helpers.”

Superhero Billy Mansell

Why you want to take part: “Not only to enjoy participating myself, but to surround myself with inspirational and motivational people, to help raise awareness of inclusive sport and, most of all, to inspire others with similar conditions to take part.”
Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “It has shown me disability sport at its best. It makes me incredibly passionate to do my best as these events are really the only opportunities I get to participate and win medals. I used to be a keen athlete and the Series has shown me you can be an athlete and winner no matter your ability or level – and you get to dress up in the process. What’s not to love!”
Your Kryptonite: “Fatigue.”
Gadget/s of choice: “My mountain bike. I’m sure that with my incredible Sidekicks assisting me on the day, there will be nothing we’ll be short of!”

Billy’s Superpower: “Dedication – to achieve through believing and inspiring others in the process.”

Superhero Harry (AKA Batman) and Sidekick Mum Cirsty

Why you want to take part: “The Superhero Series allows me to be a Superhero and use my super powers to take part in sports that I wouldn't otherwise get the opportunity to do in Jersey.”
Superhero Series’ lasting impact: “I loved Superhero Tri and it has given me so much more confidence to take part in things! I have since done a local children’s fun run with my Mummy using my frame! Disability doesn't mean inability!”
Your Kryptonite: “Being distracted by all the super supporters & my legs getting tired quickly!”
Gadget/s of choice: “For the swimming stage my Mummy and my ‘boat’, my trike for the bike stage and for running my frame – and super-fast splints!”

Harry’s superpower: “Making friends with everybody!”

Superhero Frances

What you’re most looking forward to: “I love the excitement of big sporting competitions. I am secretly a competitive person who never gives up, so I am really looking forward to the event.”
Your Kryptonite: “I’ll be desperate to get to the finish line! I need to remember not to rush, so that I can enjoy the atmosphere.”
Gadget/s of choice: “I don’t get to ride bikes very often, so it will be really fab to ride anything!”
Frances’s superpower: “Making other people smile.” 

Superhero Dan

Why you want to take part: “I’m fundraising for Dogs for Good, which has given me two fantastic dogs. My current dog, Jazz, helps me in so many ways, from picking things up from the floor for me to bringing me the phone in the night when I wake up with infections. She’s a constant companion and will be watching on the day.”
Your Kryptonite: “Due to my injury I lose my first wind quickly and imagine my arms will go to jelly at 5km. I’ll just have to push on through till I get my second wind.”
Gadget/s of choice: “My friend’s handcycle. It’s a hybrid so it’s got a bit of battery power if I need a boost.”

Dan’s Superpower: “I’m quite a joker and I always find the fun in things as opposed to the negative.”

Superhero Katy

Your Kryptonite: “The apprehension of taking part! And making sure I am prepared enough to complete the challenge!”
Gadget/s of choice: “My two friends who are taking part with me. One is taking on the cycle and the other the final push/run.”

Katy’s superpower: “I never like to give up! I want to motivate others and show that you can achieve so much with determination.”

Superhero Ben, aka Arrow

Why you want to take part: “To show people what can be done and to support my sister, who does a great job for Variety.”
Your Kryptonite: “Keeping going over the whole distance.”
Gadget/s of choice: “A good bike and an energy drink!”

Ben's Superpower: “My Mum!”

Superhero Freya

Your Kryptonite: “It’s not difficult at all. I’m going to love it.  I'm going to cycle really fast and I don’t need any help. I can do this!”
Gadget/s of choice: “Leila, my special trike.” 

Freya’s superpower: “To cycle really fast.” Mum says, “Freya's steely determination, not seeing her disabilities as a barrier and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel happy.  Her most used phrase is, ‘I can do this!’”

Superhero Neil

Your Kryptonite: “Horrible weather.”
Gadget/s of choice: “My legs.”

Neil’s superpower: “The ability to meet and help people.”

Superhero Kitty

Why you want to take part: “For fun, adventure and the social side. I’m getting loads of people to take part with me or come along and support.”
Your Kryptonite: “The hardest thing will be trying to contain my excitement! There’s nothing I’m not looking forward to. The biggest barrier to completing is if my Dad can’t do the whole swim!”
Gadget/s of choice: “An inflatable boat for the swimming, a three-wheeler chair for the run and an adapted trike for the bike ride.”

Kitty’s superpower: “A ‘let’s join in’ attitude. If it’s high, fast and fun I’m there. I want to show others that you can do whatever you want, maybe just with some extra help and equipment!!!”

Superhero Andi

Why you want to take part: “The thought of taking part in a sporting activity had never even crossed my mind until I came across Superhero Tri. I did the bike stage of the team Sprint and the buzz was so amazing that this year I want to see if I can manage two stages.” 
Your Kryptonite: “All I need to do now is conquer my water issues and fight my way into a wetsuit and we are home and dry ;).
Gadget/s of choice: “My trike Trixie, Wilma my Wheely-Walker thing and my Hydrotherapy floatation belt.”

Jo-Anne’s superpower: “My Husband. With him by my side my inner “Wonder Woman” shines through. Oh, and cupcakes. Never give up. Never surrender. And never say no to a cupcake.”

Superhero Sally

Why you want to take part: “It was super fun last time. I want to come back and take part in an event inclusive to all. We all have different abilities and can all do different things, but everyone can be a Superhero on the day.”
Your Kryptonite: “The heat as it makes me more fatigued and getting out of the water with wobbly legs.”
Gadget/s of choice: “Sidekick Lenny – The Human Walking Stick!”
Your superpower: “The ability to keep going. In the words of Kadeena Cox – ‘Keep S’Myelin and Never Give Up.’”

Superhero Anil

Why you want to take part: “Why not? I love a new challenge and it is a great opportunity to get active and at the same time inspire others.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Being part of the event, meeting new people and having a great time.”
Your Kryptonite: “Speed – but I will not let this stop me and I will try my best to reach the finish line in the quickest time possible.”
Gadget/s of choice? “My bike, which I hope I can better navigate in this race.”

Anil’s superpower: “My willingness and determination to succeed.”

Superhero Emily

Why you want to take part: “I want to take part to show people with my disabilities anything is possible, especially with support from people who love you.”
Your Kryptonite: “Not letting myself get overwhelmed by all the people and noises due to my autism. I don’t have a conventional style when I swim, wheel or walk due to my co-ordination, meaning I get tired faster and am more likely to fall.”
Gadget/s of choice: “My Sidekick Alice as she’ll keep me calm and on target. I also have my wheelchair which is an off-roading chair as well as my rainbow crutches in case I have enough energy to use them for the push/run section. For the bike I’m using a double hand bike.”

Your Superpower: “My smile and my ‘never give up’ attitude.”

Superhero Rhys & Sidekick Dad Anthony

Why you want to take part: “The idea came about after Rhys’s sister had her first sports day last year. Rhys clapped frantically from the sidelines and didn’t stop cheering all afternoon. At the end of the day they called for the ‘siblings race’. I asked Rhys if he wanted to take part and he shouted "Yaaaay”. So I carried him to the start line and when we set off I held my arms round him, while he kicked his legs forward as if he was running himself. He was absolutely hysterical all the way and people clapped and cheered him on. He loved it! This is why we want to do Superhero Tri – with him, not for him.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Crossing the finish Line with Rhys!”
Your Kryptonite: “The transitions."

Gadget of choice: “The boat.”
 

Rhys’s superpower: “His happiest. He will warm to anyone, has a huge smile, an infectious laugh and always demands a cuddle.”

Superhero Nancy & Sidekick Mum Emma

Why you want to take part: “Nancy’s hoping that not only will the training programme get her parents fit again(!) but that she can get out there and help spread awareness of genetic disorders. With increased knowledge and understanding, hopefully we can all be reminded that inclusivity of so many people who are following a path that is different to the norm is something to be celebrated.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “The cycling. After watching her 4-year-old brother zooming around on a bike for so long she's keen to be out there giving him a race on two wheels!”
Your Kryptonite: “The weather.”
Gadget of choice: “Her trusty sporty buggy. Nancy plans to lie back in comfort whilst her Sidekicks wheel her over the finish line!”

Nancy’s superpower: “Her smile! She has the ability to charm and melt anyone lucky enough to come under its spell!”

Superhero Chris

Why you want to take part: “I still love competing and seeing how fast this old vehicle will go. Even with bits missing. We are fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Your Kryptonite: “Falling down.”
Gadget/s of choice: “One of my secret weapons is my ‘Limbwow’ – a piece of synthetic car chamois that goes between my stump and the prosthetic liner. It soaks up the sweat and stops the liner slipping, even through a marathon. There, it’s not so secret any more.”

Chris’s superpower: “My wife Denise, who completely understands the frustrations of being an above-knee amputee. By the way, I love the double-take I get when I pass another runner near the finish line. I can see the thought bubble, ‘I’ve just been overtaken by an old man with one leg...’”

Superhero Thomas

Why you want to take part: “To meet so many more people like me who have cerebral palsy and also to raise the profile of RaceRunning now it has become a Paralympic discipline. I want lots more children like me to see my RaceRunner and think, ‘I can do that.’”
What you’re most looking forward to: “The challenge of completing another 5km and meeting so many lovely people just like me. It is going to be cool to highlight what we as disabled athletes can do – rather than what we can’t.”
Your Kryptonite: “I think the wind and cold could be my biggest challenge as high winds could make me wobble on my RaceRunner.”
Gadget of choice: “My wonderful RaceRunner, which will help me fly around the course.”
 

Thomas’s superpower: “Me and my RaceRunner – we could not do it without each other! My sense of humour too as you have to have fun being a Superhero!”

Superhero Phil

What you’re most looking forward to: “Meeting others. I’m a people person.”
Your Kryptonite: “I’ll find driving to Windsor quite a challenge due to tiredness, and at the event the same.”
Gadget/s of choice: “A recumbent trike. Unless I can get myself on two wheels again. Then I’ll be on my pre-stroke Fat Bike!”
 

Phil’s superpower: “Embarrassing my kids – especially the teen!”

Superhero Fran

Why you want to take part: “I enjoyed Superhero Tri so much that I wanted come back. It was so inspiring to see so many people with such a huge range of disabilities taking part on their own terms.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Making new Superhero friends.”
Your Kryptonite: “Celery.”
Gadget/s of choice: “My trusty recumbent trike!”

Fran’s superpower: “Smiley, determined, sport-motivating waterbabe.”

Superhero Craig

Why Superhero Tri: “Why not? I love to challenge myself and want to be noticed as a person, not by my disability.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Riding a handbike as I’ve not done so since I was a teenager.”
Your Kryptonite: “Pain, but I won't let it stop me.”
Gadget of choice: “A handbike.”

Craig’s Superpower: “Positivity and the drive to do it.”

Superhero Mark

Your Kryptonite: “Heat is not good for me, so I may need to use my Superhero shield to protect me. But if it’s cool the other guys better watch out!”
Gadgets of choice: “My dynamic leg and super-fast handcycle.”

Mark’s superpower: “I can make anyone smile and enjoy themselves. I also have super determination and a super have-a-go attitude.”

Superhero Mega

Sporting super-stripes: “Even with my disability, I love sport and have always done sporting activities. At the moment my passion is wheelchair tennis, in which I’ve achieved silver in singles and gold in doubles. I also do wheelchair racing and won the chariot event at Mad Dog. What I love is the friends you make with people who have the same love and passion as you.”
Why Superhero Tri: “Why not? I love a challenge and where better than in a place where I can maybe be inspired and inspire others.”
What are you most looking forward to: “Giggles, lots of giggles, and meeting new friends and having lots of fun.”
Your Kryptonite: “Pain is going to be my biggest battle, but I will dig deep.”
Gadgets of choice: “My tandem bike and lots of prayers!!!!!”

Megan’s superpower: “Being so positive and determined, and always making people smile.” 

Superhero Sebastian & Sidekick Paul

Will you be using any gismos or gadgets? “I will probably ask Sebastian’s little brother Harrison to sit with him for the swim and keep him calm (and in the boat) whilst I tow them both. I know he’s not a gadget or gizmo, but for a brief time he’ll be a hero to his big brother. A worthy shout out, no? The charity Wheels for All has kindly given us use of a tricycle for the bike section, which is like a really cool, comfy wheelchair with pedals.”
Why are you taking part? “Ultimately it allows me to connect with Sebastian soul to soul and share a glorious moment. We’ll cross the finish line broken, beaten and battered, but connected as a family and full of love, embracing each other at our combined success, each person playing their own important part.”
Have you ever done anything like this before? “In 2013 we cycled from Manchester to Blackpool on one of those adapted bikes and when I crossed the finish line I cried like a tired-emotional-broken-man-baby. Sebastian laughed the whole way.”
What will be your Kryptonite? “The logistics of Sebastian in boat, plus the cold and me towing him makes up about 90% of my concern. You can watch us trying to solve these issues on our Vlog: YouTube/DisabilityReel.”
What tips would you recommend to any other potential Super Sidekicks out there? “One thing to come out of this are the amazing connections and knowledge from people when I tell them what we are doing. So reach out to everyone for any help you need, because it turns out somebody you know, knows a person who…Etc…”

Sebastian’s superpower: “Belly Laughter and Giggles.”

Superhero Isaac

Sporting super-stripes? “I love lots of different sports, including running, football, scooting, biking, body-boarding and swimming.”
Why Superhero Tri? “Superhero Tri will be an inspirational event and I will get to do three sports that I like.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “The whole event atmosphere and the enjoyment I get from new challenges and meeting other participants.”
Your Kryptonite: “I'm still in the process of learning to swim, so I think the swim could be very tough, but I am relying on my dad to help me out here.  If the water is very cold, I hope that he will be in the water and I can catch a ride.”
Your gadget/s of choice? “My cheetah blade, together with my flashing dinosaur trainers for the run and my nifty scooter for the cycle.”

Isaac's superpower: “My endless energy. My mum will often ask, ‘Do you ever sit still?’ but I can't stop myself!  So I’m hoping my long-lasting ‘battery power’ will kick in on event day.” 

Superhero Kris

Ever done anything like this before? “I did a 10k handcycle in a triathlon team in 2015, I have two London Marathons under my belt and a few other distance events.”
Sporting super-stripes: “After embracing a wheelchair six years ago I became a fitness instructor and provide exercise classes to people with and without disabilities; 14 of these clients will be taking part with me as “Team Wheely” in their first tri event. I've also gone on to present workshops, talks and demonstrations showing people a different and positive approach to disability and I’ve also started dipping my wheels into acting and dance.”
Why Superhero Tri? “It’s such a great event because it brings everyone together regardless of ability, embraces individuality and takes away barriers to ensure everyone can compete and share in a great experience of achievement, participation and fun.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Being part of something unique and seeing everyone sharing in a common goal: to be the best they can be and celebrate their abilities.”
Your Kryptonite: “Trying to get my wetsuit off. Legs are impossible as I can’t push it off and I can’t reach down enough with my arms to pull it.”
Your gadget/s of choice? “My wheelchair for the push/run, a handcycle for the bike section and a surf board for towing my Sidekick in the Sprint Sidekick Tri.”
Your Superpower: “Strong arms, stubbornness and determination – and a body built on chocolate!”

Superhero Eve & Sidekicks Jenni & Steve

Why are you taking part? “Because it’s uniquely inspirational and huge fun. An event like this shows you the true power of sport and it’s not about being the fastest or the fittest or the most physically able. It's about showing yourself and others that you can achieve more than you ever thought possible and that sporting achievement and physical courage takes many forms.”
What will be your Kryptonite? ”We want the Tiny Tornado to do the last 100m of the run/push in her new walker. This might be a bit of a challenge as a) she’s still learning how to use it and b) she considers straight lines rather dull!”
How do you train together? Eve and Mummy go on regular run/pushes together, along with our canine sidekick Scout. We all go on family hikes and Mummy and Daddy take turns seeing just how 'off-road' our trusty pushchair is!
What tips would you recommend to any other potential Super Sidekicks out there? “Don't panic!  There will be huge support and goodwill for you and your Superhero so take your time and enjoy it. Make sure you look around and see everyone cheering for you.”

The team’s superpower: “At the risk of sounding cheesy, it's Eve's attitude to life. She doesn't know what any of her diagnostic labels mean. If she can't do something she doesn't let it bother her; she simply finds a way round it with a cheeky grin on her face. Also beer. Beer is isotonic and hops are good for you!”

Superhero Ed

Sporting super-stripes: “Running”
Why Superhero Tri? “I like to try to push myself as far as I can go, so when I heard about Superhero Tri, I knew I definitely wanted to take part.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “It will be a big challenge for me, but I’m looking forward to completing my training and achieving my goal of finishing the race.”
Your Kryptonite: “Cycling on slippery roads!”
Ed’s superpower: “A ‘never give up’ attitude.”

Superhero Abbie

Sporting super-stripes: “I love taking part in sports, but always struggle due to my disability. However, my parents have always given me the confidence to have a go at anything, no matter what. I recently started playing wheelchair tennis and it is a fantastic sport. In my first year I was undefeated in both singles and doubles. I am currently the National School Games 2016 Girls Singles and Doubles Champion, the National Girls Singles and Doubles Champion and the National Junior Green Ball Doubles Champion. I have also have made some amazing friendships through playing.”
Why Superhero Tri? “I love a challenge and I want to be like everyone else for the day. I also hope to inspire others with disabilities, as we can do anything we put our minds to!!”
What you’re most looking forward to: “All of it!! Meeting all the Superheroes, having fun and proving I can do it.”
Your Kryptonite: “The bike as my balance is not very good – and coping with pain to be able to finish.”
Gadget/s of choice? “A dinghy, a tandem bike and my wheelchair.”

Abbie’s superpower: “My amazing Sidekicks, my determination and the ability to always keep smiling.”

Superhero twins Alice & Tommy, & Sidekicks James, Georgie & India

Sporting super-stripes: “Skiing, mountaineering, horse riding and football (we’re lethal from five yards out).”
Why Superhero Tri? “To raise money for the amazing people at the Evelina London Children’s Hospital.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “We like smacking the bums of other runners as we overtake.”
Your Kryptonite: “We have brain implants, which technically make us cyborgs (but don’t tell the organisers in case we get disqualified).”
Gadget/s of choice? “Our wheelchairs. Although we haven’t yet worked out if they float…”

Alice and Tommy’s superpower: “Our smiles smash down walls.”

Superhero Amanda

Sporting super-stripes: “I am training for four events this year, including the Superhero Tri.”
Why Superhero Tri? “I think it is going to be a really powerful and inspirational event with so many Paralympians and people with a variety of disabilities taking part (and I get to dress as Wonder Woman!).”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Dressing up as Wonder Woman and having great fun!”
Your Kryptonite: “Transition – I forgot to take off my bike helmet for the run in my last tri.”
Gadget/s of choice: “A tandem bike.”

Amanda’s superpower: “Training with my guides and helpers. With them, anything is possible.”

Superhero Victoria

Sporting super-stripes: “I have tried to get back to doing most things I did before I lost my leg as it makes me feel like the old me and I don’t want to be defined by my disability. I ski, run, hike, play tennis, bike, do circuit training. Running on a blade was hard to learn and is sometimes painful, but I love the freedom it gives me, to just be able to get up and go for a run in the park.”
Why Superhero Tri? “I think having small achievable goals in life helps us overcome the impossible. I never thought I would get back to running after the accident but I have and it makes me feel as though I could do anything. As a personal trainer I understand the importance of exercise, both physically and mentally, and just because we have a disability shouldn’t stop us giving anything a go.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Finishing!”
Your Kryptonite: “The swim.”
Gadget/s of choice? “My running blade.”

Victoria's superpower: “My kids supporting me and my black spaniel Ted, who loves coming running with me and pushes me on when I am exhausted.”

Superhero Sean

Earth years: “54”
Hometown: “Bruton, Somerset”
Your chosen mission: “To complete in the Half Superhero Tri (400m swim, 10k bike, 2.5k push/run) despite my missing part.”
Your disability and how it will challenge you: “I had my left leg amputated in 2014 after years of pain. I struggled to become mobile and let it get me down. With lots of encouragement and support from ITV's Lorraine and inspired by the likes of Sophia and other Paralympians I was determined to get back on my 'foot' again.”
Ever done anything like this before? “I did a 5k run in 2016.”

Sporting super-stripes: “I was sporty when I was young then an accident put an end to that. I became a rather round couch potato over the subsequent years. My amputation and subsequent prosthesis has allowed me to try those things I never thought possible.”
Why Superhero Tri? “I met Sophia Warner last year and I was inspired by her enthusiasm and I wanted to step up my challenge this year.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Joining all the others, either participating, supporting or cheering everyone on.”
Your Kryptonite: “The bike ride should be a challenge as I only learnt to ride a bike again last year.”
Gadget/s of choice? “My son Ethan as I'm hoping he will carry my leg while I am swimming.”

Sean’s superpower: “My family.”

Superhero Grace

Why Superhero Tri? “It's just so exciting! I cannot wait.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Meeting all the other Superheroes and having a great adventure away from my beautiful little Island.”
Your Kryptonite: “My Dad, who is going to do the swim, and my sprinting.”
Gadget/s of choice? “My running shoes.”

Grace's superpower: “I’m extremely determined. I’m The Determinator!”  

Superhero Sam

Sporting super-stripes: “Sport has always been a little challenging for me, but I learnt to ice-skate and play hockey at 13 and I’ve been swimming from the age of 3. I also do Judo and started running in 2014 to help improve my social and fine motor skills. My dad and I then decided to try triathlons. I’m currently doing a sports coaching degree and when I graduate I’d like to train other people who have learning difficulties. I would love to participate in triathlons and sport for the rest of my life because it gives me confidence and keeps me fit.”
Why Superhero Tri? “Because I want to show that people with autism can participate in sport and that we can do it well. I hope others with learning difficulties try sport because it will give them more confidence.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Doing the cycling with Homer Simpson (my Dad).”
Your Kryptonite: “Encountering new situations.”
Gadget/s of choice? “My triathlon watch.”

Sam's superpower: “Going running in the wind, snow or rain and never giving up.”

Superhero Ross

Sporting super-stripes: “My list of sporting achievements is not huge (yet). But I love speed and the wind in my face always brings out my famous smile.”
Why Superhero Tri? “I’m fully dependent on others to help get me moving, but many (almost all!) organised events are not inclusive and don’t allow buggy-pushing, for example. That is why events like the Superhero Series are perfect for me.”
What you’re most looking forward to: “The crowds cheering my name in support.”
Your Kryptonite: “Dad’s addiction to chocolate… If he’s not in shape my Sidekick Mum may end up having to do the all the hard work on her own.”
Gadget/s of choice? “My Big Red Buggy, pulled behind the bike and pushed for the run.”

Ross’s superpower: “Saving the world, one smile at a time.”

Sporting super-stripes: “When I was younger I swam for Bradford in the Polio Olympics and won gold medals at Stoke Mandeville. I still swim as much as possible and can do up to 32 lengths. In 2016 I joined a charity that encourages people with disabilities to go cycling. My last big ride was 152 miles Coast to Coast over 3 days. I won Woman of the Year award on Lancashire for inspiring people and raising over £2,000 for charity. I also play table tennis and visit the gym as much as my health will allow.”
Why Superhero Tri? “Because I’ve always wanted to be a Superhero....LOL. I never thought I’d be able to say that I am entering a triathlon...”
What you’re most looking forward to: “Being part of the Quest 88 team, the swimming and cycling.”
Your Kryptonite: “The running. I’ve never used a running bike before.”
Gadget/s of choice? “A handcycle and a running bike.”

Rashmi's superpower: ”Creating positive feelings by making people smile and a magic right leg that does the work of two!”