On 1 June 2024, Oliver Busby, 8, and his sister Eleanor, 5, took part in the Henley Kids Triathlon – swimming, cycling and running in support of their cousin Callum, 18, who lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This was their first charity fundraiser and together they raised £620. Their mum, Vicki, explains what motivated them to get involved.
Siblings take on Kids Triathlon in support of cousin living with muscular dystrophy
Oliver and Eleanor are both keen athletes and members of Evo Junior Tri Club. This was Oliver’s second year competing in the Henley Kids Triathlon and he was keen to cheer on his younger sister as she joined him for her first event.
Excited to see so many people support their fundraising
It was Oliver’s idea to fundraise and do the triathlon for their cousin Callum, who is 18 and lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. They have a close relationship with him and wanted to do something to help. I’ve supported Muscular Dystrophy UK for several years and have taken part in the London Marathon twice, but this is the kids’ first charity fundraiser.
It was lovely to watch Oliver and Eleanor smiling and cheering each other on, and they were excited to see so many people support them with donations and messages. They both absolutely loved it and were buzzing at the end.
They understand how much muscles matter
Whilst they don’t understand the ins and outs of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, they know that Callum needs to use his wheelchair full-time and has limited movement due to his muscle weakness. They understand how much muscles matter and were desperate to do their bit. Oliver and Eleanor love spending time with Callum; he has a great sense of humour, and his determination knows no bounds. He’s an amazing young man and is heading off to university soon to study Graphic Design.
For Oliver, taking part in the Henley Kids Triathlon ‘Steel’ event involved swimming 50m, cycling 2km and running 1,000m. Eleanor completed the ‘Tin’ triathlon by swimming 10m, cycling 1km and running 500m.
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