A GUIDE dog owner has completed a triathlon with a difference while grieving the loss of her mother.

Louise Jenkins, of Henllan, took part in 100 For Guide Dogs, which invited people to run, cycle or swim their chosen distance.

Louise, who lost her sight 17 years ago, was on course to complete all three disciplines in September when her mother became ill, prompting a four-hour dash to be at her side in Manchester.

“Mum sadly passed away,” said Louise. “She was an amazing woman so, as a tribute to her, I completed my challenge by swimming for 100 minutes in the sea at Aberporth this week.

“The person I am today is all thanks to my wonderful parents. They brought me up believing nothing is impossible if you want it enough. My mum was so proud of everything I did, but she was my inspiration."

Earlier this summer, Louise completed the first leg of her challenge by cycling 100 miles on a tandem.

“I’d never ridden one before but it’s fun,” said Louise. “I had three different people taking turns to ride up front who were all confident cycling on the road, although the shortest, Heulwen James, found it quite hard to reach the pedals, so I had to put more effort in!”

Running 100 miles was Louise’s next challenge.

“I run four times a week anyway,” she said. “Wayne Hoyland, who owns Primal Health and Fitness in Newcastle Emlyn, lent me a treadmill while the gym was closed during lockdown. It kept me sane, but it was great to get out with my guide runners again.”

Braving the waves at Aberporth was Louise’s final discipline.

She said: “This was the most challenging thing I have done for a very long time, but definitely the most invigorating. My Guide Dog Triathlon is complete!”

Louise and her Labrador retriever Trinity became Wales’s best-known guide dog partnership when Louise was named Inspirational Guide Dog Owner of the Year in 2017.

A mother of two grown-up daughters, she juggles caring responsibilities at home with a demanding job as manager of Camfan mental health drop-in centre in Lampeter. Trinity is popular with the clients and has helped Louise deliver services during the coronavirus crisis.

“When the whole world is changing, Trinity continues to be by my side, enabling me to make a positive difference,” said Louise.

“It’s vitally important that we keep raising money for guide dogs like my beautiful girl Trinity. She’s changed my life.”

Louise’s triathlon has so far raised more than £6,500 for Guide Dogs in Ceredigion. To boost the total further, visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/group1046