Team Stewart proving that disability is not inability at Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon

For siblings Lizzie and Chris Stewart, sport has always been part of family life. Together, they have become known as Team Stewart, challenging perceptions of disability in sport and showing what can be achieved with determination, teamwork and the right support.

Chris, who has complex disabilities, first started running alongside his parents at parkrun in 2015 before completing a marathon the following year. The experience sparked a passion for endurance sport, and what began as a family activity has grown into an inspiring mission to make sport more accessible for others.

Lizzie said: "One thing Chris has always hated is being left out or seen as unable. Our family has always believed that whatever Chris wants to do, there's a way to make it happen."

Since then, the duo have taken on everything from marathons to triathlons. They are now preparing for their biggest challenge yet, a full Ironman together in 2027.

Their journey has not been without obstacles. Chris' health needs mean plans can change at a moment's notice, including hospital stays and last-minute fitness assessments ahead of major events.

"It's never straightforward," said Lizzie. "We've had races where Chris has been in hospital days before the start, and others where we've only had confirmation he could take part at the very last minute. There's always a plot twist."

Competing as a duo also requires specialist equipment, from running wheelchairs and adapted cycling attachments to kayaks for triathlon swims, making participation far more expensive than traditional sport.

While the family are in a fortunate position to afford the adapted equipment needed, they recognise that many people aren’t. Recognising the barriers that many disabled athletes face, the siblings established Team Steward as a Community Interest Company, with all profits helping others access adaptive sports equipment.

Lizzie said: "We're fortunate that we've been able to access the equipment Chris needs, but many people aren't in that position. We want to remove those barriers and help more people experience the benefits of sport."

The pair's long-term ambition is to create an adaptive sports festival, allowing people to try a range of sports using specialist equipment before making the significant investment required.

"Our goal is simple," added Lizzie. "We want to prove it's disability, not inability, and make sport accessible to everyone."

To support Team Stewart's mission, donations can be made via their GoFundMe page.