Darren Lovett is to transform from electrician to Ironman this summer, in order to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
The 39-year-old from Lea, Preston, is one of 1,500 amateur and professional athletes to have entered the Ironman 70.3 in Exmoor on Sunday, June 16 - a triathlon which includes a 1.2 mile swim, 56-mile-bike ride and a 13.1 mile run each completed one after the other.
Darren, a father-of-three, has never competed in an Ironman competition before, but is an enthusiastic runner and cyclist, having recently participated in a charity 109 mile bike ride and 30 mile run.
Currently in training, he now wakes up everyday at 6.30am for a 45-minute swim before work, runs six to 10 miles a night, and uses his cycle trainer at least five times a week.
Each event has a cut-off time and the triathlon must be completed within 15 hours. Professional athletes are able to finish under four hours, but Darren has set a personal goal of seven hours.
“I won’t win the competition,” he said, “but for me it’s not about winning. I’ll be up against professional athletes and I’m an amateur.
“For me, It’s about personal achievement and raising as much money as I can for Cancer Research UK.”
Darren is determined to do well, having taken a two month break after falling from his bike and fracturing his collarbone.
Mr Lovett has another reason behind his determination - he hopes to raise £500 in memory of his uncle Desmond Lovett, who lost his battle with cancer in January aged 71.
Darren’s father John Lovett, 77, was also diagnosed with bowel cancer last year but under went extensive treatment and a life-saving 12 hour operation.
Darren said he finds it tough raising money, because he and wife Vicky do a lot of charity work.
He said: “It’s important for us to raise money in anyway we can. We don’t like to ask the same people over and over again, especially because we always trying to collect donations any way we can.”
Vicky applauded her husband’s efforts. She said: “Me and the children are so proud of him and are excited to watch him compete.”
To donate, visit Darren’s fundraising page at: http://www.justgiving.com/DarrenLovett
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