Kirklees man to complete Ironman Challenge for Yorkshire Cancer Research

Phil McMahon will take on the Ironman Challenge along the Adriatic coast in Italy and has already raised almost £500 for world-leading research in Yorkshire.

The 40-year-old said: “I thought it would be a great opportunity to raise funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research. It’s a once in a lifetime challenge, and the amount of training that it has required is intense, so everyone has really got behind my fundraising.”

The charity is close to Phil’s heart, as his father-in-law was diagnosed with cancer several years ago.

Phil said: “Around a year after my wife and I moved in together her father was diagnosed with larynx cancer. He initially had radiotherapy, but it wasn’t successful, so he had surgery on his throat.

“It’s been a long journey for him and the family, and it’s something I’ve seen many friends and their families go through too. Cancer is something that affects everyone.

“I really wanted to help raise funds for a charity which helps with the early diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The fact that it’s a local charity means that the research funded will directly benefit people in Yorkshire.”

The Ironman event, which is considered to be one of the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world, consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run.

Phil first decided to attempt the challenge three years ago and has been training hard for the event.

“I originally joined a running club and more recently got involved with triathlons. I used to swim when I was younger so thought this would be a good direction for me to go in, but I never imagined I would be signing up for an Ironman distance.

“Training has been really tough. I had to take some time off due to an injury a few months ago, but I’m now able to get back out and running.

“My family, friends and colleagues have been so supportive and have done everything they can to make sure I have the time to train and prepare for the event.”

Every year, more than 170 Ironman Triathlons are held in locations across the globe. Phil decided to complete the Ironman Challenge in Italy after his friend signed up and recommended the route.

The event, which takes place in September, will see Phil start his swim in the ancient fishing village of Cervia, before running and cycling through the village and into the surrounding Romagna countryside.

“I’m so excited. When I looked at the course it seemed like a great route and a good opportunity for my wife and I to travel too. I’m excited to get started but I also can’t wait until I cross the finish line and can relax and enjoy some Italian sunshine.”

The funds raised by Phil will help prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer in Yorkshire.