If you think you can, you can.
2024 was a year of change and challenges. For me, the hardest part was losing my Nana, Brenda Heathcote. After suffering a stroke five years ago, she fought every step of the way, but her passing in April left a huge void—especially for my Grandad, Ken Heathcote, her husband of nearly 70 years.
Together, they built a life of ambition, generosity, and resilience. They founded Bolton Health Studio in the 1960s—the UK’s first multi-purpose fitness club—pioneering a new approach to health and well-being. Nana’s drive and dedication were at the heart of everything they achieved, always pushing for better.
To honour her legacy, Grandad and I are taking on a challenge that embodies their shared spirit. For his 90th birthday, he’s swimming 90 lengths in a pool and 90 lengths in open water to raise funds for Stroke Awareness, Cancer Research, and Alzheimer’s Research. And if you think that’s impressive at 90, just wait until you hear what he’s done before…
Ken has spent 50 years proving that age is just a number—from running 40 miles on his 40th birthday (along with 40,000 lbs lifted, four squash matches, and 400 sit-ups) to conquering marathons, mountaineering, and open-water swims well into his 80s. Even open-heart surgery didn’t slow him down. Mental? Yes. Inspiring? Absolutely.
My Challenge: Keeping Up with Grandad
Inspired by him—and my Nana’s belief in always striving for better—I’m joining the challenge. On July 18th, I’ll be attempting to swim 90 lengths, lift 90,000 lbs, and play 9 sets of tennis—all in one day. For context, I am not in peak physical condition (massive understatement), so this is going to be tough.
Join Us: The Not Out at 90 Challenge
This isn’t just about us—it’s a movement. We’d love for you to take on your own challenge and help raise funds. Whether it’s walking for 90 minutes, doing 90 push-ups, or even playing 90 minutes of chess, every effort counts. Join in person, virtually, or simply spread the word using #NotOutat90.
How You Can Help:
✅ Donate – Every pound helps us reach our £90,000 goal.
✅ Join the challenge – Take on your own ‘90’ challenge and share it on social media!
✅ Spread the word – The more people involved, the bigger the impact.
Ken and Brenda believed fitness could change lives, and this is our way of continuing that mission. Let’s make a difference together.
If you think you can, you can.
@NotOutAt90
#NotOutAt90
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