I have taken part in a sporting event every year for the last ten years to raise money for vision-related charities. This year I decided to step up the heat by doing the double in July. The Fambridge Half Iron Triathlon and the Prudential Ride London.

 Blind Veterans UK provides vital support to servicemen and women and not only those injured on duty but those who have served their country, in any way,  at some time in the past. 

Over the last few years I have taken part in cycling events and triathlons but thought the challenge of a Half Ironman distance triathlon and a 100 mile cycle events was just about within my capabilities before old-age really sets in.

Blind Veterans UK is a really practical charity, have a look onwww.opticianonline.net, for a review of its centre at Ovingdean near Brighton. I'm sure every penny donated will be used to improve the life of someone who has served their country but now needs help themselves.

THE JOURNEY

Embarking on a half Ironman distance triathlon is no mean feat so I have been taking things a step at a time. Since Optician magazine moved to the Mark Allen Group I have become an all-year round swimmer braving the Brockwell lido down to 4 degree centigrade this January.  I also decided to go trunks-only. My thinking being that not only would this toughen me up but the added buoyancy of the wetsuit would be a boon on race day.

Last year the tide was incredibly strong so I am glad to be feeling more confident in the water. I have also been running more, off road, which matches the Fambridge course.

I like to think of cycling as my safe sport but for the first time in my life I am not commuting to work by bike. I have had to up my distances at the weekend and dust off the fixed wheel bike for some punishing training rides.

The two events are very different. The Ride London hilly and the Fambridge tri flat so the combination will be interesting to see.

Thanks you for taking an interest in this venture.

Chris Bennett