Three Port Macquarie-Hastings ladies are competing in the 2017 Ironman 70.3 on May 7 to help raise funds for cancer research. 

The team is called Blista Sistas and on May 7 Sarah Shuter will run 21 kilometres, Jody Hopkins will swim 1.9 kilometres and Vanessa Bailey will cycle 90 kilometres. 

In 2014 Ms Shuter was one of the people who heard the words ‘you have cancer’. 

At 33-years-old she was diagnosed with breast cancer. 

She has been given the all clear after undergoing surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. 

The name Blista Sistas was chosen to represent the mental mindset of overcoming any hiccups as part of the challenge.

The women said they are determined, committed and it’s something they never thought they would do.

Before taking on the challenge the furthest Ms Shuter had run was nine kilometres. 

As part of her training she has gradually been increasing her running distance each week. 

Ms Hopkins has participated in the Ironman event in Port Macquarie once before but said she isn’t complacent going into the 2017 event. 

“I know what’s expected but I am still putting in a lot of training as it’s not going to be handed to me,” she said. 

Ms Bailey said she was looking forward to taking on the cycle leg for the team. 

“I know I can do the distance now as I did that on Saturday (March 25),” she said. 

The women said they are not going to be intimidated by some of the major athletes who come to Port Macquarie to compete in the event. 

It is their aim to cross the finish line with a big smile across their faces. 

On April 22 the Blista Sistas are hosting a trivia night at 6pm at the Flynns Beach Surf Club to help raise funds for cancer research. 

There will be tables of eight people and it costs $15 per person to participate. 

To book a table contact Vanessa on 0439 684 221, Sarah on 0418 467 202 or Jody on 0428 965 106.  

To donate to the Blista Sistas’ cause click here 

To register for the 2017 Ironman 70.3 in Port Macquarie click here