An energetic World Record attempt is set to take place in Derbyshire this Summer – all in aid of raising funds for youth activities in Alfreton.
According to the Guinness World Records website, the longest single-event triathlon (male) currently stands at 374.5km and was achieved by Will Davis in Redcar, UK on June 24, 2023.
Just over a year later, on July 13 and 14, Derbyshire’s James Saxby is set to attempt to beat that record, all the while raising funds for AYUP (Alfreton Youngsters Umbrella Provision) which is a volunteer run initiative that offers a multitude of weekly activities for youngsters in the town.
A spokesman for AYUP said: “This summer James Saxby is attempting to break the record for the longest continuous triathlon.
“Over the weekend of July 13 and 14, he’ll be swimming, biking and running non-stop, all to help raise funds for AYUP.
“The fundraising target is ambitious, £25,000. But with everyone’s support it can be achieved.”
The spokesman continued: “This would pay for the clubs for a year and keep them free for the young people of our town.
“If you are in a position to donate, the Just Giving page is live and over the next few weeks we’ll be sharing James’ journey (through the AYUP Facebook page) and letting you know how you can be involved.”

For his World Record attempt in July, James will be swimming at Lavender Patch Derby, cycling at Darley Moor, and then running from Matlock around the Derbyshire countryside, before ending up in Alfreton.
James said of his extreme challenge: “Over the last few years I’ve supported my friend James Simpson through lots of sport related challenges. James was instrumental in raising funds for Alfreton Youngsters Umbrella Provision (AYUP), which my son attends.
“2024 is my turn to support this brilliant cause, so I’m taking on the Guinness World Record for the Longest Triathlon ever, with the help of James Simpson and many others.
“The rules and details are extensive, but in short I will aim to be swimming, cycling and running over the course of two days without sleep, in excess of the current record of 375km.
“This will take place in Derbyshire and I will finish the run in Alfreton, the epicentre of AYUP’s focus.
“I’d love it if people can do everything they can to help me share this far and wide, to raise the much needed funds to secure this provision for at least the next 12 months.”

James continued: “AYUP’s goal is to provide safe secure environments where youngsters aged 11 to 18 can meet together, build positive relationships and positively impact their community.
“Unfortunately the town of Alfreton has lost all youth facilities over the years and AYUP is working to re-establish them.
“At present youngsters have the opportunity to participate in a regular Friday night Youth Club with activities provided by The Old Farm Bus, a Wednesday night Sports Club at Alfreton Leisure Centre and a youth outreach project is running on Monday nights through the Blend Youth Project aiming to engage with and support the young people who are present across the town.”
James added: “AYUP aim to ensure all the activities are free for the young people which is why any funds raised are so appreciated.
“Please donate what you can – £2, £5, £10 plus. It all helps AYUP to provide the much needed youth provision in Alfreton.”

Anyone wishing to give to James’ fundraising, can do so by going to here

A video has been produced to help launch James’ fundraising. This can be viewed on ‘TriathlonDan’s You Tube page at here

To read more Spirit of Alfreton articles about AYUP go to here

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