Racing for Rights: James Undertakes Ironman Challenge

Aspiring barrister James Harrison prepares for the challenge of a lifetime! 

What started out as motivation to keep fit over winter has suddenly become a mission for access to justice. James Harrison, who will begin his BPTC studies in September at BPP in Bristol, is taking part in the Ironman Vichy 2019 to raise money for Advocate and Middle Temple – two organisations close to his heart. 

A keen sportsman and fighter of injustice, James decided it was only right to combine these two passions to raise money for charities important to him. Having recently begun to race triathlons, James has chosen to race the Ironman in Vichy, France, on August 25^th 2019. The race entails a 3.9km swim, 180km bike ride and a marathon, all in potentially scorching weather! You can donate to support James' challenge here.

“Swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, run 26.2 miles, brag for the rest of your life” – John Collins, Ironman founder

As a future barrister, James is acutely aware of the issues surrounding the lack of access to justice in this country, and the vital role played by those volunteering through Advocate. Being able to provide legal support to those who need it the most is a driving force behind James’ desire to become a barrister, and he is extremely passionate about contributing to such projects wherever possible. 

If it weren’t for the funding of the Middle Temple, who provide scholarships and financial support for individuals who want to join the Bar but cannot afford to support themselves, James wouldn’t be able to pursue the BPTC next year. James came from a state school to study at Mansfield College, Oxford, where he became involved with college projects to increase accessibility and outreach. This gave him an understanding of just how much work the charities administered by Middle Temple do in broadening access to the Bar, providing the motivation behind this immense challenge. You can find out more about the work of the Middle Temple here.

“Training has been going well, and I am hopeful of finishing in less than twelve hours” – James

James’ story is only one example of the fantastic things people do to raise money for Advocate. We would not be able to help people get access to the justice they need and deserve without supporters like James, and we are eternally grateful for his contributions. You can donate to support James' challenge here.

Read more about James’ story here, and make sure you follow him on Twitter @jamesutharrison for updates about his journey to the Ironman Vichy 2019.