More than 220 property professionals from across Wales’ construction, housing and building services sectors braved the stormy conditions to take part in the seventh Wales Property Triathlon. They were joined by Olympians Helen and Marc Jenkins, who joined the event for the second year.
The triathlon is organised by family run construction firm, Jehu Group, to raise money for their chosen charity Carers Trust Wales, who are committed to improving support and services for unpaid carers. This year’s event raised more than £9,200.
Both Rene and Simon Jehu completed the 500m swim, 20k bike ride and 5k race representing the group, alongside teams and individuals from organisations including; Taylor Wimpey, Valleys to Coast, Principality Commercial, Icon Design and Rio Architects. While Marc Jehu, competed as part of a team representing the company at this year’s Iron Man in Tenby.
Simon Jehu, managing director of development for the group, said: “It has been another fantastic year for the triathlon, with participants taking on the race as individuals or as part of a relay team. Congratulations to everyone who crossed the line.
“The triathlon is about encouraging everybody who is looking for a fitness challenge, so it’s brilliant to see the way the event has grown over the years; since 2014, we have raised more than £63,500 for our chosen charities in that time. Thank you to our generous sponsors, event partners and staff who have supported today’s event, without them we couldn’t organise this amazing event each year.”
Husband and wife team, Jamie and Melanie Best from Melin Consultants, took first prize in the male and female categories, with the Walker Cup for the fastest team won by the Tondu Wheelers, comprising of Rob Green, Richard Thomas and Evan Parry-John. The Cup commemorates, Hugh Walker, who was a working foreman for Jehu Project Services, and passed away four months after a brain tumour diagnosis, in 2013.
Carers Trust Wales works to improve support, services and recognition for the more than 370,000 people in Wales living with the challenges of caring, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or addiction problems. The charity also has a key role in raising awareness about the issues impacting on carers, celebrating the amazing things they do and campaigning for change where it is needed.
Simon Hatch, director of Carers Trust Wales commented: “The Wales Property Triathlon is yet another example of how the Jehu Group are using their drive and passion to support Carers Trust Wales through our two-year charity partnership.
“We are grateful to all of the organisers, volunteers, supporters and participants for everything they did to make the event a huge success, despite the stormy conditions.
“The funds raised will allow us to do even more to ensure that carers across Wales are able to access the help and support that they deserve.”
Helen Jenkins, who is a double world triathlon champion and three-time Olympic athlete, added: “Mark and I are so pleased to be part of this amazing event again, especially as we need to do more to support our carers in Wales. The triathlon not only raises awareness of the work of Carers Trust Wales, but brings people and communities together, which is the incredible power of sport.”
Over the last year, Jehu have undertaken a number of fundraising events, including their property band night held at Milk & Sugar in Cardiff and their recent four-ball competition at Cottrell Park Golf Club.
For more information about the work of Carers Trust Wales, visit their website here. To find out more about the triathlon, as well as to donate, click here.
