Ironman UK

For the last few years, Exmoor Rotary has been involved in the organisation of Ironman UK at Wimbleball Lake on the edge of the Exmoor National Park. A number of other local Rotary clubs are also involved. Importantly, this event raises a very significant sum for charity (the charities are selected by the athletes), and we are fortunate in being the bearers of cheques to local cases, notably Children's Hospice South West, and the Calvert Trust (Exmoor).

This is an event for top triathlon athletes - 70km consisting of swimming (1.2 miles), cycling (56 miles), and running (13.1 miles). It attracts a very large number of competitors from all over the world, and well over 1000 competitors take part. For information check out the Ironman UK web-site.

What our club does is to run a 'cyclists' service station' on the bike course (in which they complete two laps) which means that the competitors can stock up on water, energy drink or energy bars as they whizz past. We have to be at the location soon after 6am to get the drinks mixed, and put into special bottles for the athletes. Once the cyclists arrive, there is no let up, and all hands are required to man the station!