Cadets and staff at 8F (1 st City of Coventry ) Squadron recently answered a call for assistance from the organisers of the first ever double triathlon event in the UK.

Cadets worked as marshals and support crew working shift patterns across 48 hours.

Their duties included marshalling the route, assisting the athletes taking part in the gruelling process.

The event was also special to the squadron members as an ex-cadet and squadron supporter – now Chief Technician (RAF) Phil McNeill was one of the event participants. Staff and cadets were also on hand also to act as Phil's ‘pit crew' providing him with nutrition stops and patching up blisters.

Phil started his double Iron Man event at 6am on Saturday morning and after a truly epic event which consisted of a double Ironman swim of 4.8 miles in a 25 metre pool, so a mind-boggling 304 laps, followed by 16 times around a 14 mile bike loop and 42 reps of a 1.24 mile run lap.

At the end of each lap, cadets were on hand to provide energy drinks and water to those in need.

Phil crossed the line some 33 hours and 45 minutes (time to be confirmed) later decked out in RAF tri kit, smiling broadly; he even managed to trot over the line with arms held aloft.

A truly magnificent achievement - Well Done to Phil and all that took part! From all at 8F.

Articles Submitted by:-
Plt Off Amanda Hobbins ATC SMCO - 8F (1st City of Coventry) Sqn
17 Aug 08