Last updated at 21:18, Thursday, 15 March 2012

A group of West Cumbrians have been inspired by the London Olympics to take part in their own sporting challenge.

OLYMPIC HOPEFULS: A bunch of Maryport residents are undertaking various challenges at Netherhall Sports Centre to mark the Olympic Games this summer, and raise money for Lillie-Mai Jackson in the process. Back from left, Peter Cremins, Allan Watson, Ken Spink, Eric Dawes, Jim Cremins and centre manager Brian Taylor with, front left, Jenna Stuart, Sharon Baxter, Paula Young and Tracy Taylor

The group, some in their 60s and 70s and some who’ve had serious health issues, will not be competing against the other nations of the world – their challenge is personal.

Brian Taylor, manager at Maryport’s Netherhall Community Sports Centre, said nine people were set to take part in the centre’s challenge and he hoped that hundreds more will come forward.

The aim is to create a legacy to the 2012 sporting event which will see people challenging themselves to raise fitness levels.

Those taking part already include Peter Cremins, of Lowfield Bungalows, Maryport, who was so crippled with arthritis that he could barely walk.

He will cycle the equivalent of the distance from Maryport to the Olympic Stadium in London (332 miles).

Allan West, 64, of Lime Grove, will run, cycle and row a distance equivalent to John O’ Groats to Land’s End (874 miles).

Eric Dawson, 74, of Netherton, has suffered a stroke but will row and cycle the equivalent distance from Maryport to the Olympic Stadium.

Jim Cremins, 65, of Workington, will cycle the distance to the stadium and do a leg press of 350 tonnes.

Sharon Baxter, 40, Jenna Stewart, 21, and Pamela Young, 40, all from Maryport, will swim, cycle and run the distance from Maryport to the Olympic Stadium and back.

Mr Taylor said: “Our gym membership has topped 500 for the first time.

“We’d like all our members to take part and we are asking members of the public to join in by walking, cycling and running.”

Anyone who wants to take part in the challenge can call the gym on 01900 81343 or call in for details.

First published at 19:22, Thursday, 15 March 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk