Two local boxing coaches have taken part in an Ironman triathlon event for charity.
Ross Brackenridge from Johnstone and John Glen of Linwood—both personal trainers at 4 Corners Boxing Gym in Johnstone—completed the Ironman 70.3 triathlon event in Mallorca last weekend, raising money for the Firefighters Charity.
Ross, who works for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and John, an employee of OneRen, faced a gruelling challenge that began with a 1.2-mile open water swim in the cool, choppy Mediterranean waters.
Once on shore, competitors transitioned to a 56-mile bike leg over the hills of Alcudia and Northern Mallorca. The final segment was a 13.1-mile run, a half marathon that pushed their stamina to the limit as they navigated a course featuring both technical and flat stretches.
The duo were greeted by their wives at the finish line with a special banner congratulating them on their achievement – and a beer!
Their determined efforts and gruelling training not only saw them conquer the race but also helped them surpass their fundraising target, raising a total of £1,465 – well above their initial goal of £1,000.
Iron dad legends: John and Ross after their 7 hour contest with their banner and well deserved beers
Reflecting on the challenge, former soldier, Ross told Renfrewshire News: “This is a massive challenge for us both, having never taken on something of this scale, we would love to raise a good amount for the Fire Fighters Charity while doing so.”
Ross added, “The night before the race I was thinking, ‘Can I do this?'”
“Pool swimming is one thing, but looking 1km out into the open water was absolutely terrifying. Standing on that beach the next morning with 4,000 other people, I just had to put that fear aside and go for it.”
He continued, “The race is unbelievable. The cycle route is tough with 3,000 feet of climb, but the views are worth it. It was the biggest test of my life, but crossing that finish line after 7 hours of pushing every part of your body was a life-changing experience.”
John felt that both of them had put in the effort to complete the race. He said: “I had the usual pre-race jitters but knew that we had put the effort in with training – well as much as we could squeeze in.
“I knew the cycle was going to be the toughest part for me, and having been knocked off the bike the week before, I was nervous but absolutely buzzing going in!
“It’s hard to put into words how it felt standing on the sand with all those people looking out into the bay with the music blasting and the crowd egging you on, my heart was pounding out of my chest. It was incredible!”
John continued: “The swim went well for me and I was onto the bike quite quickly and set off well, but I struggled with the 20k climb. That being said the fast-paced descent was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Now I get why so many choose Mallorca for cycling holidays, absolutely breathtaking.”
However, John thought his race was over: “Unfortunately, after the fun bit, I was hit with terrible pain in my lower back, so much so that when I got off the bike I thought my race was over. I spent over 13 minutes in the transition zone just trying to change my shoes for the run, but then I remembered all the people who had sponsored us, and I had a stern word with myself.
“I limped to the run start where I saw our wives, Mary and Eilish, cheering me on, so I put on a brave face and started running. Once I started, I just kept telling myself not to stop. It was probably the toughest run of my life. It took a lot longer than it should have, but I managed to push through and cross that finish line!”
Lyndsay Campbell, Regional Fundraiser at Fire Fighters Charity, says: “We’re so proud of Ross and his teammate John for taking on such an incredible challenge – the Ironman 70.3 is no small feat, and their determination has been inspiring to see.
“Every pound they’ve raised will go directly towards supporting our vital work – providing lifelong care and support to the fire services community… including firefighters just like Ross and his colleagues across the UK.”
Supporters are invited to contribute to Ross and John’s fundraising efforts. Donations can be made via their JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/ironman70-3mallorca.