Ironman Peter takes on the ultimate fitness challenge

8:50am Tuesday 26th August 2008

By Mark Hilditch

A CREWE train driver, who lost his mum to cancer, is taking on one of the most gruelling physical challenges in the world in a bid to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Peter Mallison, aged 37, from Wistaston, will be pushing himself to his limits when he takes part in the IronMan UK Triathlon next month.

He is one of 2,000 people to qualify for the annual event as they battle it out for the title of IronMan UK 2008 at Sherborne Castle in Dorset on September 7.

Peter, who works for Virgin Trains, was motivated to raise money for Cancer Research UK after losing his mum, June Mallison, to liver cancer when he was in his early 20s.

The course includes a 2.4 mile swim in the lake at Sherborne Castle, a 122 mile cycle, and ends with a full length marathon.

The father-of-two, who is married to Pauline, is no stranger to physical challenges having competed in numerous triathlons and marathons over the years.

However, this will be the first time Peter has taken on an IronMan Triathlon and admits this will be his biggest challenge to date.

He said: “I have taken part in several of these kinds of events before but never anything quite as challenging as this.

“Some of the toughest athletes from around the world take part in this event and it demands a very high level of fitness.

“The event has a cut off time of 17 hours, but the training is going well and I hope to finish a few hours inside the time limit.

“When I first found out that I had qualified I thought why not raise money for a great cause at the same time.

“Having lost my mum to cancer 14 years ago, Cancer Research UK is a charity close to my heart.

“Unfortunately most of us will know someone affected by cancer at some point in our lives.

“It’s a terrible disease which does not discriminate and something I feel very passionate about.

“I have had lots of support with my training, both from my family and friends, but also from the local community.

“I am a member of South Cheshire Harriers Running Club and the Crewe Flyers Swimming Club who have both given me lots of support.

“In addition to this, I have also been training with the Crewe Clarion Cycling Club.

“Everyone has been fantastic and I’m hoping I will be fully prepared for the big day.”

Laura Meadowcroft, Cancer Research UK’s area volunteer manager, added: “Peter is taking on a very tough challenge to help raise money for Cancer Research UK.

“We want to say a huge thanks to him for all his support and wish him the very best of luck on the day.”