Junior Doctor Meg Pragnell from Radcliffe on Trent has set a new world record, completing 15 consecutive middle distance (Half Ironman) triathlons in 15 different UK National Parks over 15 days. Swimming, biking, and running through mountains, moors, forests and storms, she covered 1,582 km and burned approximately 58,000 calories.
The challenge raises funds and awareness for Sarcoma UK and honours Meg’s best friend, Em, who was diagnosed with sarcoma three years ago. It also celebrates the journey of rebuilding life with her mum, after donating her kidney just over six months ago.
The Challenge took place between the Thursday 31 July – Thursday 14 August 2025, where Meg visited all 15 UK National Parks: Cairngorms, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Northumberland, Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors, The Broads, South Downs, New Forest, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire Coast, Snowdonia, and Peak District.
Challenge Statistics:
- 26.6 km swimming – further than the English Channel
• 1,260 km cycling – London to Madrid
• 295.4 km running – seven marathons
• 1,582 km total – almost Land’s End to John O’Groats and back to Birmingham
• ~58,000 calories burned – that’s 232 chocolate bars
Support Team Contribution:
- ~2,500 miles driven
• ~52 hours on the road keeping Meg fuelled, safe, and ready to race
These unsung heroes ensured every day’s challenge could be completed safely.
Meg explained: “Just over six months ago, I donated a kidney to my mum to help her get her life back on track. We’ve been rebuilding together — and now, I’m taking on this wild challenge.”
The challenge also honours her friend Em: “This challenge is for her, and for everyone affected by sarcoma. Sarcoma UK is the only UK charity focused on research, support, and advocacy for this rare cancer.”
Currently, Meg had raised over £7,000 for Sarcoma UK.
You can also donate by visiting her Just Giving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/15in15