Audiologist Simon Wierzbicki completed “a fair few races” last year, including a 124km bike race, a triathlon, and two half marathons – and all to support people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus. Here, he shares his adventure diary.
Why I raced for RNID
I’ve worked within audiology for many years and have been constantly overwhelmed by the commitment and passion shown by those working to help children and adults with hearing loss. I’d like to raise awareness of RNID, who do such an amazing job, and if possible raise some money to help them in even a small way.
The first challenge: Tour De Mon, Wales
The bike race was on 18 August 2024. It was a clear and, most importantly, a dry day for a bike race, if a bit windy. There were plenty of people to ride with and it was a relatively flat track. I saw Jo, my wife, and the kids on my way past, so I really flew through the first 55km until the first food stop.
The second half of the race was a different story. There were many climbs (over 1500m in total) and descents for 30km, which led to the field spreading out from there onwards. With lots of solo riding, it was really hard on the legs.
During the last 35km of this race, we were riding into a head wind, which was pretty hard going. The finish line was a delightful sight, and receiving hugs from all ‘the Wierzbicki fan club’ was amazing.
The second challenge: Abersoch Half Marathon
After the bike race was my next challenge: the Abersoch Half Marathon. Getting my legs used to running again after focussing completely on bike riding was tough. The events themselves are difficult, but the training that goes into preparing for each event is where the real work is. Adding up the total distance I’ve swam, ridden and ran since I began training comes to… 738 kilometres so far!
On 16 September, in beautiful sunshine, I completed the stunning Abersoch Half Marathon. It was very hard work from start to finish, and I struggled to get my heart rate under control. As the character from the film Deadpool would say, “maximum effort”. But I finished with not only a personal best but also came in third in my age group.
The third challenge: the Pwllheli Triathlon
This was a great event with a really friendly atmosphere. They were very welcoming to a newcomer to the sport. Logistically, there was much more to think about for a triathlon than for a single event race. After some initial faffing, making sure all the right kit and all the correct numbers were stuck in all the right places, we were underway.
I took the swim easy, pushed hard on the bike, and then kicked as hard as possible on the run. I finished in 12th place overall and 3rd in my age group. Very happy with that.
The fourth challenge: a change of plan
Soon after the triathlon, we unfortunately lost my farther-in-law to cancer, and his funeral meant that I couldn’t take part in the trail half marathon. So, I decided I would complete my own trail event to make up for it, and do it in his honour.
So on 5 April this year, I ran the last stage of the Welsh 3000’s, a route that takes runners all over the Welsh mountains that are higher than 3,000 feet. I did the last section, which was 25km long and included 1822 meters of ascent over 8 mountains. After just over 4hrs and nearly 3,000 calories burnt, I was figuratively and literally finished.
So that was it: 4 events completed, over 1000 km of training and event distance covered, some money raised for RNID, and hopefully their profile raised, too. Job done… for now. Watch this space!
