Proud To Be Supporting Tim
Tim Lodge is a GB Paracanoe Medalist who has battled disability, depression and anxiety to focus on his passion for canoeing.
We began sponsoring Tim in 2019 to help support him in UK and national competitions. We caught up with Tim following his recent win in the European Marathon Championships in Poznan.
My Unforgettable Experience at the Poznan European Canoe Marathon Championships
I recently had the incredible honour of competing for GB in the para event at the European Marathon Championships in Poznan. This was a particularly special occasion as it marked the first time para marathon was featured at the European Championships level, signaling its journey toward becoming an official event at both the European and World Championships by 2025.
This race was not just another competition for me; it was the most enjoyable and best race of my career to date. The past 2 years have been a rollercoaster, marked by intense pain and multiple surgeries to prevent the amputation of my feet. This experience forced me to explore new ways of managing my pain and overall health. I began experimenting with homeopathic methods, including fasting, a change in mindset, new nutritional formulas, and a shift from synthetic supplements to whole foods.
These changes had a profound impact on my pain management, body composition, and overall mindset. I started to feel better not just physically, but also mentally. I found peace with my body, my feet, and the narrative I had constructed around living with pain and disability. The transformation was life-changing.
The results of this holistic approach were evident during the race. Over the last year, I lost 20KG in weight, gained fitness, and, most importantly, felt stronger both mentally and physically. I completed the 11.8KM course in an astonishing 1 hour, 1 minute, and 18 seconds—an incredible 8 minutes faster than any of my previous times. This effort earned me the gold medal in the KL3 class, a moment of immense pride and joy.
Canoeing and competing at this level has given me a renewed sense of purpose. It has motivated me to stay fit and continually push my limits, both as a human being and as an athlete. The lessons I've learned through this journey are invaluable, and I look forward to applying them in the relationship I have with the people at Haydock Finance.
It's important to note that Para Marathon Canoeing is a non-funded sport in Great Britain at this level. Without the support of my sponsors, Haydock Finance, none of this would have been possible. Their unwavering support and belief in me have been instrumental in my journey, and I am forever grateful for their continued backing as we work together to help others.
This race was more than just a competition; it was a testament to resilience, the power of holistic health, and the importance of community and support. I am excited for the future of para marathon and proud to have been part of this historic moment. The road to 2025 is bright, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us!
