Almost 12 months ago, Annette, Dai, James and Jamie all decided to enter Ironman Wales. Where has that 12 months gone?

When I found out they were taking on this huge challenge, I decided to sponsor them, and along with Jimmy and Amy last year, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

None of them had ever taken part in anything like this before and this was the deciding factor in choosing them.

In thefollowing months they were nothing but positive and trained hard in all weathers... although a week before the event, Dai changed personality, Jamie couldn’t find anything and Annette made Dazza do everything and previously forgot how to put her tri-suit on! Thank goodness James was relaxed!

I had a great time helping them in any way I could and thoroughly enjoyed it. We basically took the mick out of each other most of the time and I don’t think they always appreciated my motivational approach to coaching them! I always thought I was very good and very PC! I only ever posted pictures of sharks, huge jellyfish and other real scary sea creatures to make them swim faster!

Seriously though, I never had any doubts about them completing it and hope they know I always tried to encourage them. That is the magic ingredient, encouragement, but unfortunately not everyone gives it. One person can undo all that hard work, but thankfully they were stronger than that and it only served to spur them on.

After watching them on Ironman Wales day, I have to admit I had tear in my eye, especially watching Annette and Dai go past for their last lap knowing they were going to complete it and hear those words they worked so hard for, ‘You are an Ironman.’

Congratulations to all of you and it’s been a pleasure to help you in anyway I can.

A special mention also has to go to Katie, Lorraine, Emma, Michelle, Rachel, Becky, Marja, Neil, Neil Cross, Dan and Tony. They took part in the first Saundersfoot Sprint Tri the day before Ironman, either individually or as part of a team and did brilliantly. I’ve known some of them now for about two years, from Cycle-Fit classes and cycling, and in that time I’ve seen a huge difference and think this is only the start of bigger things to come.

Jon Mills,

Tenby Cycles/Tenby CC