A West Cumbrian GP has completed a gruelling Australian Ironman.
Dr Raghunandana Vedapanakal, who works at the Seascale practice and Cumbria Health, took part in the Cairns Ironman Queensland Australia on June 14.
He finished the Ironman in 14 hours and 31 minutes and said that it showed hard work, training and determination meant anyone could do anything.
Ironman distance involves 3.8km swim, followed by 180km bike ride and ending with 42.2km run.
His triathlon followed eight months of focused training, 4am alarms, early morning workouts, long days work followed by evening workouts, weekend long bike rides and long runs and lots of sacrifice by missing social gatherings and holidays, he said.
He added: “The conditions were tough and the day was challenging, but that made the finish even more meaningful.
“They were probably the toughest conditions I ever imagined being in – strong wind, bucketing rain and choppy and rough seas for the swim.
“It wasn’t the race I trained for or envisaged, but I stayed in it.
“I felt the intense training kept him honest, reinforced my belief and mental strength to complete the Ironman and my wife Dr Archana Rao and my children’s support helped me achieve this dream.
“I am grateful for everyone who supported me along the way and those who encouraged and followed my journey.”
Dr Raghu, 50, is regular in local parkruns & running events and said he encouraged his patients and locals in fitness activities.
He has successfully completed Lakesman triathlons and four world major marathons and said he aimed to complete others in the near future.
He said: “Dream big, be punctual and regular in training, eat healthily to stay fit to help achieve fitness goals.”
