Firstly a huge thanks to everyone who sponsored me for the Barcelona Ironman event. All the proceeds are going to the Foyle Hospice and we (myself and 2 old school friend) have managed to raise over £3,000 for the charity which will mean quite a few more people will spend their last few days in peace and tranquility and be cared for in the best possible surroundings.

As you can see from the photo ( I know some people will want to see evidence that I completed it) I completed the event in 12 hrs 16 mins which was a lot better than the 13.5  to 14 hrs I was expecting to do it in. The swim was all about avoiding the jellyfish and trying to find my way which I failed miserably at and ended up doing an extra 0.5 km, not ideal before the bike and the marathon.

The bike was all about trying to get enough food on board and replacing the lost perspiration in the heat of the Barcelona sun and avoid the Russians who don't understand space when overtaking or being overtaken. 

Then after the 7 and a half hours of all out effort it was time to tackle the marathon which for the first half was ok but the last 13 miles was absolute agony with blisters, bruising of the feet, mental disintegration, all out fatigue and thighs that I am sure actually were on fire. I managed to cross the line with the organisers screaming ' You are an ironman' which at that point are the sweetest words you can hear after all the effort and the training.

The atmosphere was fantastic with people cheering all the way and the support /camaraderie amongst the 3000 competitors taking part was something else

But again thanks to each and everyone of you for supporting myself but more importantly the charity.

Kindest Regards

Colin