Buzzworks Holdings’ Lyndsey Blair is preparing to make history by becoming the first Scot to complete one of the world’s most demanding endurance events – the Enduroman Arch 2 Arc triathlon.
Starting between 6 and 15 September, depending on weather and tidal conditions, Lyndsey will attempt the gruelling three-stage challenge: an 87-mile run from London’s Marble Arch to Dover, followed by a solo 21-mile swim across the English Channel, and finishing with a 181-mile cycle from Calais to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
The event, often described as the toughest triathlon on the planet, has only ever been completed by 64 athletes worldwide – just 14 of them women. Lyndsey, who began her endurance journey less than 12 years ago, is aiming to become the first Scot to finish.
Her challenge will raise funds for Hospitality Action and Ayrshire Cancer Support.
“These are causes close to my heart, and knowing the difference they make will keep me motivated as I take on every mile, stroke, and pedal of this journey,” said Lyndsey.
“This is a challenge I’ve been building towards for years, both physically and mentally. I know it will push every part of me – but that’s exactly why I want to do it. I visualise everything, from the start line in London to finishing in Paris, and I’ll be drawing strength from my family and supporters to not only complete this challenge, but raise vital funds for two good causes along the way.”
Her husband Kenny Blair, Managing Director of Buzzworks Holdings, added, “Lyndsey has never done things by halves. Her training is relentless, her mindset is inspirational, and watching her prepare for the Enduroman Arch 2 Arc has been nothing short of incredible. We’re all immensely proud of her – as a family and as a business – and we’ll be there to cheer her on throughout this incredible challenge.”
Lyndsey’s passion for endurance sport was inspired by her late best friend, Gillian McCluskie, who introduced her to open water swimming. Gillian passed away from breast cancer in 2018 at the age of 36, adding a deeply personal motivation to Lyndsey’s fundraising efforts for Ayrshire Cancer Support.
Training up to 30 hours per week, Lyndsey will be supported by Kenny, her niece and training partner Beth Barclay, and her coach Jon Cowell – who will also officiate the attempt to ensure it meets the strict rules of the Arch 2 Arc.
If successful, she will join an elite group of athletes who have conquered what many consider to be the world’s most extreme triathlon. Updates from her journey will be shared via her Instagram account and donations can be made online here.