‘One of the best days of my life’ ... Sussex man’s Ironman victory

Fitness fan Peter Reeves was determined not to let a global pandemic get in the way of his completing an Ironman challenge.
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Peter was due to take part in the mammoth triathlon in Portugal this year, but the coronavirus outbreak put paid to that.

But Peter, who grew up in Loxwood, decided to complete the three events - a 2.4 mile swim; a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile marathon run - in Sussex.

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And he did it all in 12 hours and 24 minutes. “It was an amazing day,” said Peter.

Peter ReevesPeter Reeves
Peter Reeves

Peter, 35, completed his 2.4 miles swim by doing 155 lenghts of his local swimming pool in East Grinstead.

“I had a quick transition onto the bike. Setting off from East Grinstead, I travelled down to Loxwood then down to Petworth up Duncton and over to Goodwood, a quick spin around at Lavant then back up to Goodwood to go through to Midhurst onto Milford, Godalming, around to Dunsfold and finally finishing the 112-mile ride in Cranleigh. So all that was left now was simply to run a marathon.”

Peter chose the Downs Link to run the 26-plus miles but had to stop with cramp three miles in - but he was soon off again being cheered on by friends.

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“Having friends from my running club - Henfield Joggers - run sections with me and getting to Henfield was simply amazing - so many people dotted in the village clearing me on.

Peter ReevesPeter Reeves
Peter Reeves

“We finally got to Shoreham memorial bridge to finish one of the best days of my life with the support of my friends and family I managed to become an Ironman.”

And Peter’s efforts have also raised £2,500 for charities close to his heart: the Friends of PICU and Meningitis Now.