Iron Dads Prove Their Mettle Taking On Iron Man Challenge

Meet the ‘Iron Dads’. Three local guys who are set to take on the ultimate challenge, a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile cycle, and a 26.2 mile marathon all in one day, more commonly known as the Iron Man Challenge!

Men of metal, Mark Jameson [48], Andrew Foster [42] and Arthur Wenlock [48], are relative newcomers to this physically and mentally difficult challenge but are determined to step up, train hard, complete the endurance, raising as much money as possible for their chosen charity in the process. Their challenge date – 27th August 2023.

The swim element of the challenge [2.4 miles/3.9km] will take place at South Lake Leisure Centre 50m pool in Craigavon, followed by cycling around Lough Neagh and the Newry Towpath [112 miles/180.2km], and after that the loop course around the lakes at Craigavon City Park [26.2 miles/46.2km], no mean feat for these Iron Man novices.

Incredibly, Mark Jameson just learned to swim last year and acknowledges the huge support from his daughter and son in helping him prepare for the challenge. The company director and family man hails from Portadown and has surprised everyone by turning his attention from iron girders, trusses and rods in his local construction company ‘Taylor Group’ to iron of a whole different type!

Business Analyst Andrew Foster, originally from Huddersfield, moved to Lurgan in 2006 where he has set up home with wife Jill and three very supportive sons. A lover of sport, Andrew has always been a keen runner, played rugby for Portadown, and he is particularly enjoying getting back into swimming as his training intensifies.

Arthur Wenlock from Lisburn, 48, is a project manager with local firm Irwin M&E. His wife, son and daughter are supporting him in his mammoth challenge. In his own words he is a ‘poor swimmer’ and this has added to the daunting task ahead. He may have an ace up his sleeve though in the form of his swimming instructor wife Victoria, who may just be able to help out a bit! Arthur has never cycled before either but is confident that his years involved in CrossFit will help to see him through.

The Iron Dads are currently in daily training for the challenge ahead, all in support of Prostrate Cancer UK. We will be following their journey closely over the coming weeks and months and wish them all the best. Keep an eye on getactiveabc Facebook and Instagram for updates.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mark-jameson13