A 2.4-MILE swim to warm up, a 112-mile bike ride followed by a 26.2-mile marathon run to warm down.
That was the challenge that awaited Llangorse lads Ben Sheppard, Ed Harris, Tom Harris, Will Davies and Robbie Davies in Regensburg, Germany.
The Ironman is a gruelling long-distance triathlon which tests competitors mentally and physically. All five of the boys completed the race, an achievement in itself. But to add further glory Ed Harris and Ben Sheppard both placed third in their respective age groups. Out of the five boys Ed Harris crossed the line first, followed by Ben, Will, and Tom who all finished together, with Robbie further behind. It was a good showing from all considering it was their first foray into ‘Iron’ distance triathlon and a first ever triathlon for Will.
Among the many hours of training there was also some fundraising; the Harris and Davies brothers raised a combined £2,100 for St David’s Hospice and Ben raised £1,300 for Global Make Some Noise.
Since their return three of the five have qualified for the Challenge Championships in Slovakia June 2018.