Jack’s Ironman Wales Challenge to Support Red Panda Conservation

At 29, Skelmersdale resident Jack Graves is pushing his limits like never before and is currently in training for his biggest and most gruelling challenge yet, the Ironman Wales competition, which takes place on 21st September.

Starting just last year with a goal of completing an Olympic-distance triathlon, which includes a 1500m swim, 40km bike ride, and 10km run, and after completing the Manchester Marathon and the Bolton Ironman 70.3 (Half Ironman), he’s ready for the full 140.6-mile challenge of Ironman Wales.

This notoriously difficult event includes a two-lap sea swim in Tenby’s North Beach, followed by a 1km run to the transition area before a challenging hilly 180km bike ride through Pembrokeshire’s stunning but tough terrain, and a marathon run around Tenby.
With gradients reaching 15%+, the course is known for testing even the most seasoned athletes. However, with the support of his family, friends, and coach Vicki Gilbody from WeStryv Performance, a cause close to his heart far outweighs the challenge ahead, such is Jack’s determination.

Jack is using his incredible journey to raise awareness and funds for the Red Panda Network, a charity dedicated to conserving the endangered red panda and its habitat in Nepal. With fewer than 10,000 red pandas left in the wild, Jack hopes to raise £500 to support their crucial work.

Donations can be made through his Instagram bio @redpandatri “Thank you to everyone who has donated or pledged to donate. Every donation, even £1, is so kind!”