Three determined schoolboys have completed an inspiring challenge to help transform their school playground.
Alex Crabtree, and Thomas and Harry Calvert took on an ambitious triathlon challenge as part of their fundraising efforts for St Peter's Primary School in Heysham.
School buddies Alex and Thomas, now in their final year at the school, cycled, ran and swam their way through a programme of events that built on a challenge they first completed two years ago when they were just eight.
Two years ago, inspired by the number 2024, Alex and Thomas set out on their first fundraising challenge: a combination of cycling (12.4 km), jogging (1.24 km) and swimming (240 m) over 24 hours to raise money for playground upgrades.
That effort raised £2,424 and helped fund key initial improvements at their school, capturing the support and admiration of friends, family and the wider community.
Below, Alex and Thomas pictured in 2024
In 2026, with new levels of ambition and energy, the boys, now aged 10, expanded their challenge using the number 2026 to set bigger targets.
They cycled 20.26 km, jogged 2.26 km and swam 26 lengths of the pool (approximately 650m) nearly doubling and, in some cases, tripling their previous distances.
Thomas’s seven-year-old brother Harry also joined the challenge on Sunday, completing his own kid-friendly course including a bike ride, run and pool swim.
Together, the boys surpassed all expectations, helping to raise a total of more than £6,000 for playground development and equipment upgrades over their time at the school - a significant boost to St Peter’s outdoor spaces that will be enjoyed by pupils for years to come.
Below, the boys pictured during the challenge at 3-1-5 health club in Lancaster
“We are incredibly proud of Alex, Thomas and Harry for their amazing efforts and generosity," said Alison Dodd, head teacher at St Peter's.
"Their determination and community spirit have made a real difference, and we thank everyone who supported them.”
The Friends of St Peter’s School PTA, chaired by Alex’s mum Lauren Zawadzki, plans to use the funds to continue improving outdoor play areas, supporting children’s well-being and learning through safer and more stimulating spaces.
Lauren said: "Watching Alex, Thomas and Harry complete their triathlon has absolutely filled my heart.
"The determination, but more than anything, the teamwork between them was just incredible. There were moments where one of them was stronger in their preferred section, moments where another needed a little helping hand, and without hesitation they lifted each other every single time.
"It was everything you hope your children learn about resilience, kindness, and support playing out right in front of us proud parents and extended support team of brothers, aunties and grandparents.
"What made it even more special was how they took it all completely in their stride. They genuinely had FUN! Laughing and messing about in the pool, enjoying the bike leg, chatting away like it was no big deal.
"I honestly could not be prouder. What a day. What a team. What amazing boys.
"If anyone would still like to support them, please do.
"Thank you so much to everyone who has already donated, supported, cheered, and encouraged them."
For more on their story and updates from the challenge day, visit the boys’ fundraising page HERE.
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