Richard Branson unveils his celebrity team for the 2012 Virgin Active London Triathlon
The Virgin Active Riverside Health & Racquets Club in Chiswick was buzzing with excitement this week as Sir Richard Branson was joined by a host of celebrities from the worlds of TV, film, music, radio and theatre to launch the 2012 Virgin Active London Triathlon.
This is the second year that Virgin Active has sponsored the annual event, set in London’s Docklands and sees over 13,000 participants swim, cycle and run around a specially designed course that winds through some of London’s most famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the London Eye. This year’s event will take place on 22nd and 23rd September 2012.
Dancing on Ice judge Louie Spence is joined by 2011 contestant Chelsee Healey and ice skating pro Matt Evers. Commenting at the launch, Louie Spence said, “I'm thrilled to be part of Richard Branson's celebrity team for the Virgin Active London Triathlon. It's a physical and mental challenge as well as a great way to get in shape, with great people, for a great cause.”
TV presenters Zoe Hardman and Jeff Brazier join husband and wife presenting team Michael Underwood and Angellica Bell and reality TV stars Lydia Bright, Ollie Locke, Nicola Mclean, Michelle Heaton and Ricky Rayment. Angellica Bell said, “Taking part in this year's Virgin Active London Triathlon is a big deal for Michael and I. We’re going to be doing it as part of a husband and wife relay team and we feel that this is our opportunity to get back in shape and tone up following the birth of our son.”
TOWIE star Ricky Rayment may not have decided what distance he’ll be taking part in but he’s still determined to beat his Essex rival Mark Wright, ‘I'm going to give Mark a call and see what he's doing. I'm feeling really excited about being a member of the celebrity team and this morning has got me buzzing and inspired to get training today.'
Broadcasters including Sky News anchor Kay Burley, Sky Sports News presenter Hayley McQueen, Heart 106.2 presenter Toby Anstis and Capital Radio’s James Barr are also taking part.
Completing the first wave team are Harry Potter actor Oliver Phelps, singer and theatre star Gareth Gates, former S Club 7 singer Jon Lee, model and fitness fan Nell McAndrew and Gladiator Amy Guy.