Well I have done it and I am now an IRONMAN.

This is a brief outline of how it went.

Emotions were taking their toll as I lined up with 2500 others on Panama City Beach, Florida. The American national anthem was playing and people were praying as the starting gun went and we entered the choppy, sea waters at 7am.

The sheer volume of people caused a washing machine effect as we pushed, barged and scrapped to find just a little space to swim. 1hour 28 mins later and the 2.4 mile swim was complete.

It was now the challenge of 112 miles on the bike.

The roads were flat and fast and cycling being my strength I passed people, chatting and encouraging them as I continued with enthusiasm. Remembering to take plenty of fluids as the temperature increased I felt strong and finished the bike section in under 6 hours.

I always knew the running would cause me problems. Injury had pervented much training and quite quickly, as the temp soared to hit 80 degrees, I was in trouble. The run became a walk/run strategy. But knowing the generous support I had from so many people spurred me on. I saw people collapse with exhaustion and darkness fell, but quitting was not an option. I will finish I told myself.

13 hours 1 minute and 46 seconds after starting I crossed the finish line to hear the commentator roar "Michael McCann you are an IRONMAN". My epic journey was over

I finished 1405th.

It's been a long road. But worth every minute.

Thank you everyone for sponsoring me. I hope to raise my target of £2000 which will help provide nursing care for terminally ill patients.

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