Muddy Mayhem fitness challenge will be a family affair

Great grandmother Pam Ayling, 68, will be taking on the Muddy Mayhem Challenge in Hardwick Park, Sedgefield, along with paramedic son Tony Ayling, 49, and granddaughter Lucy Ayling, 20, in October.

Mrs Ayling, originally from Hartlepool but now from Trouts Lane, Durham, decided to take on the challenge before she turns 70 next year - the cut off age to take part.

Lucy said she wanted to take it on before her 21st next year.

Mrs Ayling, who grew up in Seaton Carew, said: “It is a bit liken an army assault course,

“I am 69 in February and have always wanted to do something like this, so I just thought that I would get it done before I turn 70 next year.

“Some friends of mine did it last year and I thought that I would love to do something like that.

“I just think it will be fun.”

Mrs Ayling grew up in Hartlepool and has family and friends who still live in the town, before moving to Durham 24 years ago.

The challenge - on October 1 - will see the family take on a 5k assault course featuring over 40 obstacles ranging from cargo nets, climbing walls, tunnels, and freezing water.

She added: “I have four dogs and have been doing dog agility for the last 12 years, so people think I am really fit anyway because of this. But I am doing training for it.

“I have been going running with the dogs and I am just trying to do a little bit every day.

Lucy said she was looking forward to taking part in the challenge.

She said: “I’m just really looking forward to completing the run as a challenge before I turn 21 next year.

“It’s even better tha my grandma is combating her fear of mud before she turns 70 next year!

“It’s great that we have three different generations doing the run.”