One of our amazing supporters will take on his first Olympic distance triathlon in memory of his best friend’s son.

Robbie Davies, 35, of Buckley, will tackle the Chester Triathlon on Sunday June 7^th to raise funds for our hospices – a charity very close to his heart and that of his friends.

Oliver Saunders was just six-years-old when he died. He lived with an extremely rare genetic condition called DYRK1A Syndrome and was blind. Consequently, he had additional complex medical needs. Oliver had enjoyed respite and therapy sessions at both hospices.

Oliver was the son of Dan Saunders and Nicole Cruse, also of Buckley, close friends of Robbie’s. Dan was even the best man at Robbie’s wedding – a favour Robbie is set to return later in June.

Amazing staff

Robbie said: “The work the hospices do is phenomenal.

“I’m more than happy to be doing what I can to help raise funds and awareness.

“The staff are amazing and did so much for Oliver.”

Looking ahead to the event, Robbie shared: “My training is going well but this will be my first big triathlon – it’s a 1.5km swim in the River Dee, a 40km cycle down towards Wrexham and finally a 10km run around the city.

“The runs around Buckley are hillier, so I’m confident with that stage.

“I had a little taster of what’s to come recently by doing a smaller sprint triathlon.”

Friends

Dan shared: “Our friend Robbie is taking on the Chester Triathlon to raise vital funds for Hope House Tŷ Gobaith in memory of our son, Oliver, who sadly passed away in September, 2025.

Oliver with his parents, Dan and Nicole, and his sister Nancy

“Throughout Oliver’s life, Hope House provided incredible care and support, giving him wonderful experiences with their nurses and staff while ensuring all of his needs were met. Their care also gave Nicole and me precious respite, knowing Oliver was safe, comfortable, and so well looked after.

“Since Oliver’s passing, Hope House has continued to support our family through counselling and bereavement services, for which we are deeply grateful.

“Robbie’s challenge is a way of honouring Oliver while helping Hope House continue the extraordinary work they do for families like ours.

“Please support him and Hope House so they are able to continue to provide important services to families of children with complex medical needs. 

“Good luck Robbie and thank you - we and Oliver will be with you every step of the way.”

Sponsor Robbie

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