Hartlepool and East Durham funeral director to take on gruelling Austrian Ironman challenge for hospice

Tracey Rimmer, who works at Mason’s Funeral Directors in Hartlepool and Speckman’s in Wingate, will take on the country’s Ironman competition to raise funds for Alice House Hospice.

Along with her husband Stuart, she will attempt to complete a 2.4-mile lake swim followed by a 112-mile bike ride and finish with a marathon run – all in under 17 hours.

Speaking at the launch of her fundraising appeal, Tracey said: “I’m very much looking forward to the event and having such a wonderful charity to raise funds for will give me the push that I need to spur me on.”

She has chosen to compete in aid of Alice House Hospice, in Hartlepool, describing the work it does as “outstanding”.

Tracey added: “This gruelling competition consists of a 2.4 mile swim in lake Worthersee, then onto a 112-mile bike ride with some tough climbs but beautiful scenery then onto the last part, and the worst for me, a marathon. For those that don’t know that’s 26.2 miles of running.

"These three disciplines have to be completed in under 17 hours for you to able to be given your medal and call yourself an Ironman.”

The event is due to take place in September. She and Stuart have been training for it for almost two years after it was postponed last year because of the pandemic.

Janice Forbes, community fundraiser at Alice House, said: “This is a huge challenge, and it is great that Tracey has chosen to support Alice House Hospice.

"Mason’s Funeral Directors are great supporters of our charity, and this is a brilliant way for them to continue their support.

"I wish Tracey the best of luck in completing this tough event.”

As the only adult hospice in Hartlepool and East Durham, the hospice’s services make a difference to thousands of people affected by a life-limiting illness and their families each year.

To support Tracey go to her Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/Tracey-Warrior2.

Alternatively, you can place your donation in the collection box in reception at Alice House Hospice, in Wells Avenue, Hartlepool.

Mason’s Funeral Directors and Speckman’s are part of Dignity Funerals.

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