Charlotte Nichols is a 3rd-year Medical student at the University of Bristol. This summer, she and her partner Stuart will be attempting to complete all 80 Olympic events during the 17 days that coincide with the Tokyo games (23rd July-8th August) to raise awareness and vital funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, in memory of Stuart’s much-loved brother, Spencer (Spenny).
In 2011 Spencer tragically lost his life to Motor Neurone Disease aged just 49, leaving behind his wife and 2 young sons. Spencer held a special place in the hearts of all who knew him. He was many things to many people, a well-known and talented musician, a keen footballer, a loyal and trusted friend and always the party starter! Spencer lived with this disease for just under 2 years and throughout this period he dedicated himself to raising as much awareness and money as he could for the MND association.
Charlotte told us “Stuart has always wanted to mark this 10-year anniversary and celebrate Spenny’s life in a fitting way and that was the seed that grew into Spennylympics, and in me, he has found someone determined and crazy enough to bring this idea to life! We are under no illusions as to just how difficult this challenge will be, in fact, it has been described by some as “impossible” which has only fuelled our determination to succeed even more!”
“Throughout the Spennylympics, Stuart and I will be taking on a number of energy-sapping tests such as the Marathon, the 240km road cycle, the 10km swim, the 50km race walk and the triathlon. We will also be completing a range of events for your entertainment, including synchronised swimming, skateboarding, surfing, rhythmic gymnastics and Graco-Roman wrestling! Stuart and I aren’t anywhere near ‘Olympic fitness’ and we have a lot of work to do between now and the summer!”
To support Charlotte and Stuart’s training on the run-up to their incredible event, our Sports Medicine Clinic will be advising them on all things training and injury prevention, via complimentary virtual appointments, and they will also have access to the University swimming pool and gym when our facilities reopen. We are thrilled to be a part of this incredible event for such a worthy cause and look forward to keeping you all updated on their progress in the coming months.
To find out more about Charlotte and Stuart’s journey to the Spennylympics, and to donate, visit the Spennylympics website. You can also find them on all social media platforms under @spennylympics