Last week, it was announced on The One Show that our Ambassador, Lloyd will be joining this BBC Children In Need Challenge Squad!
The Challenge Squad is a group of four inspirational young people supported by charities that receive Children in Need funding.
Squad members Lloyd, Jude, Kat, and Eloise were selected by the BBC and tasked with personal challenges to undertake during the Children in Need appeal week. (10-14th November).
Lloyd is taking on an Olympic Triathlon!
Tonight the One Show has revealed that Lloyd’s Challenge is his very own Olympic triathlon at the Olympic Park in London! An Olympic triathlon features a 1.5 km swim, a 40 km bike ride, and a 10 km run.
Lloyd is well-known for his love of running and many of you will have seen him taking part in marathons, often alongside Mum, Ceri, or running partner and gymnastics coach, Josie. But a triathlon is something completely new to Lloyd.
Extra Chromosome, Extra Challenge, Extra Determination
For many individuals with Down syndrome, factors such as low muscle tone, reduced balance, coordination difficulties and delayed motor development make activities like swimming and cycling especially demanding.
In his early years, Lloyd faced significant challenges: hearing difficulties, operations on his legs, and even a hole in his heart that made something as simple as walking exhausting. Yet, today Lloyd is showing the world just what is possible with dedication and hard work.
Having an extra chromosome has meant extra effort in every new skill he learns – but Lloyd has never let that hold him back.
Riding a bike has long been a goal for Lloyd, and over the last few months he has worked relentlessly to develop the strength, confidence and skills he needs to take on this challenge.
Learning to swim longer distances has also been a huge challenge for Lloyd. But he is already making great progress with his training partner, Hendrik.
The BBC will follow Lloyd as he swims, cycles, and runs, proving that with the right support and belief, anything is possible. This triathlon isn’t just about crossing the finish line, it’s about challenging perceptions, celebrating ability, and showing what can be achieved when opportunities are open to all.
In Lloyd’s words . . .
“If you follow your dreams and have the right support – anything is possible.”
Stay tuned!
We are very excited to follow and support Lloyd as he prepares for the triathlon. We can’t wait to see him on TV again soon!
We are so proud of you Lloyd – good luck with your training!
You can learn more about Lloyd here: Lloyd Martin SSDS Ambassador
