Army veteran studying at Chester takes on triple triathlon challenge

Mark Jones, who is studying for a degree in Human Geography at Chester, has recently completed the Ultimate 100 Triathlon in Ellesmere and now aims to complete the gruelling Ironman Leeds for the first time in August, and Ironman Wales in Tenby for the fourth time in September. Each Ironman competition involves a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and a full marathon. The Ellesmere Triathlon consisted of a 1.2 mile swim, 48.5 mile bike ride and a 12.4 mile run.

The 51-year-old from Trevor, Llangollen, now living in Ruabon, said: “I wanted to set myself a goal that would really test me, both physically and mentally; it's going to be a demanding few months, but that's exactly what appealed to me.

“I love proving to myself that I can achieve things that initially seem daunting and out of reach. There will inevitably be tough training sessions and difficult moments during each race, but overcoming those challenges is what makes the experience so rewarding. Completing three triathlons in such a short space of time will be my biggest endurance challenge to date, and I'm excited to see what I'm capable of.”

Mark, a member of Wrecsam Tri Club, outlined that his preparation has included using an amended full distance triathlon training plan, which he has tailored to suit his University timetable and family life, while making sure he has stayed consistent across swimming, cycling and running.

He added that the Ultimate 100 Triathlon in Ellesmere had given him further drive to succeed: “I found it to be a fantastic event with great support, course routes and spectator support. Everything came together on the day, and I was extremely happy with both my performance and my finishing time. It was a great opportunity to put my training into practice, and the experience has given me even more confidence and motivation moving forward for my future races at Leeds and Tenby.”

Mark served in the military for 18 years, reaching the rank of Colour Sergeant. He saw active service in Bosnia, Iraq, Kosovo, Cyprus and Northern Ireland, as well as training in Canada and Kenya. Mark was also an instructor at the Infantry Training Centre Catterick, and was chosen to march in the Cenotaph Parade in London, representing his former regiment, the 1st Battalion Royal Welch Fusiliers, on Remembrance Sunday last year.

His time in the military influenced his decision to embark on a degree in Human Geography, wanting to further his interest in the complex interactions between people, places and the environment. He has completed a foundation year at the University of Chester and looks forward to the next stage of his degree studies following the summer and the completion of his triple triathlon challenge.