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Ironman challenge in lockdown
Posted: 5th May 2020An endurance racer has not let lockdown stop him from completing an extreme challenge.
Dave Ramsey, assistant headteacher at BMAT STEM Academy, has taken part in endurance races and triathlons for the last six years.
He completed his first Ironman challenge in 2017 after getting involved in the community to lose weight and get fit.
He has been since taking part in three races a year of varying lengths and disciplines.
With large events cancelled due to the Coronavirus, Mr Ramsey was keen to find another way to stay active.
He said: “During the lockdown, Ironman have been running virtual triathlon races where you do three events over three days, rather than in one go.
“I took part in the Half Ironman event, which consisted of a 5km run on the Friday - replacing what is normally a 1.9km swim, a 90km bike ride on the Saturday and a 13.1km half marathon on the Sunday.
“It’s great to still be able to race and participate with a wide community - more than 14,000 people signed up from across the world and more than 8,000 people finished the challenge - during this time of physical distancing.
“While it was strange completing the race with no other physical competitors, or the crowds and support, it was still a great challenge and the perfect motivation and opportunity to stay fit and continue training.”
Mr Ramsey is inspiring students at his school – and the wider public - to get involved and said: “The events are free and anyone can sign up to them online. There are shorter distances and running and cycling events as well as the half and full distance events. Unlike the formal races, there are no time limits which really opens the racing up to all, no matter their experience or fitness levels.
“It’s so important to keep exercising and to get outside during this challenging time for both physical and mental health. I would encourage anyone to get involved and have a go.”