Barlborough-based physiotherapist Lizzie Rawson, 28, took on one of the toughest endurance events in the world recently – the Ironman World Championships 2025 in Kona, Hawaii – proudly supported by sponsorship from her colleagues at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough.
“Crossing that finish line and running down the red carpet to get my medal after just under 13 hours of racing was an amazing feeling.”
Lizzie Rawson, physiotherapist at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough
Lizzie earned her place on the world stage after qualifying at Ironman Portugal 2024, where her outstanding age-group performance secured a coveted world championship slot. In 2025, around 1,600 female amateur athletes from across the globe, alongside the world’s top professional women, gathered in Kona to compete over the iconic distances of a 3.8km ocean swim, 180km bike ride, and 42.2km marathon. Lizzie completed the tough course in under 13 hours.
Known for its intense heat, humidity and strong coastal winds, the Kona course tests even the most experienced triathletes. Lizzie spent months preparing for the conditions, completing heat adaptation training sessions throughout the summer – sometimes cycling indoors with the heating on to replicate the Hawaiian climate. Earlier in the year, sponsorship from Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough helped fund a training camp in Lanzarote, chosen for its similar environment and challenging terrain.
Whilst challenging, race day itself was unforgettable for Lizzie. She comments: “The swim was tough and choppy, but halfway through we were joined by dolphins. It was incredible! The bike course was hilly and hot, but the volunteers at the aid stations were fantastic, constantly handing out water and ice to help us stay cool.”
After nearly 180km in the saddle, Lizzie began the marathon portion, cheered on by enthusiastic crowds lining the streets of Kona. As the sun set, the final 10km were run in darkness. Lizzie says, “Crossing that finish line and running down the red carpet to get my medal after just under 13 hours of racing was an amazing feeling.”
Lizzie was supported in Hawaii by her uncle, aunt and brother, with her dad following her progress from home. She describes the event as “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” and expressed heartfelt thanks to the hospital and colleagues who contributed to her sponsorship.
“Triathlon at this level is expensive,” Lizzie explained. “As an amateur athlete, I have to cover all the costs, which include travel, race entry, accommodation, bike maintenance, kit and nutrition. The support from Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough made such a difference and motivated me to give it everything to do the hospital proud.”
Lizzie has worked as a physiotherapist at Practice Plus Group Hospital for just over 18 months and regularly supports patients with sports rehabilitation, or recovery after surgeries like hip and knee replacements at the hospital.
Steve Booker, Hospital Director, says: “The hospital team congratulates Lizzie on her phenomenal achievement and her inspiring dedication, resilience and passion – qualities she brings to her work every day. We were so proud to support her on this monumental adventure and we’re looking forward to seeing what she does next!”
Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough, is celebrating its 20th anniversary after opening in 2005. It continues to help reduce NHS waiting lists in hip and knee surgery. Over the past two decades, the hospital has continued to grow with four theatres, and now over 5,000 private and NHS patients every year. The team specialises in hip and knee replacements, weight-loss surgery, hernia treatments and cataract surgery. Private patients can be self-referred to Wellsoon private healthcare available at the hospital. NHS patients can ask their GP for a referral to Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough.
