IRONMAN Ronan Mellows is going more than the extra mile to raise money for charity.
In fact, Ronan plans to swim, cycle and run a total of 965km (559 miles) in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.
That’s the distance from Wokingham to Berlin and the 31-year-old aims to complete the gruelling task in just 10 days.
For Ronan, the triathlon will help raise funds for a charity close to his heart as his godmother, Jean, suffers from dementia.
“Growing up in Finchampstead, Jean, who was also a nanny to myself and my three siblings, was a huge part of our lives,” explained Ronan.
“She held me on the day I was born so I wanted to do something to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Society, which is why I have designed a tough challenge to try and raise as much money as possible.“
“Jean was diagnosed with dementia several years ago and although she is still with us, the lack of routine and support that came with the various covid lockdowns has seen her mind deteriorate with a devastating speed.”
On the first day of his triathlon on Ireland’s west coast, Ronan will swim 15km across Lough Erne, cycle 200km per day for six days then finish by running three marathons over the final three days.
Although he has competed in a number of Ironman competitions, the 31-year-old believes the swimming challenge will probably be the toughest part of the event.
“The Lough can be a really cold and lonely place. I’ll be swimming for six hours with my head down just thinking about the finish.
“Despite that, I am actually looking forward to doing the triathlon. I’m glad to say my wife, Chloe, will be there to support me, drive the camper van and she’ll be cheering me on along with our dog, Bagel.
“Our costs are self-funded so all the money raised will go directly to the Alzheimer’s Society to support those who need it and help fund much needed research into a cure for this terrible disease which affects so many people.
“I have set a target of £10,000 but it would be great to smash that.”
Ronan’s 10-day challenge starts on Monday, April 3. For more details and to donate, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ronan-mellows
