Dave Hall, Ironman

Story: Smaira Saddique

Dave Hall, Byron Wood's Learning Mentor will be doing the 'Iron Man' competition this summer in Zurich - a marathon of swimming, cycling and running.

I began by asking him why he was doing it...

As a student, I saw Mark Jenkins, the world-class athlete, on TV when I was ill in bed. I thought, 'I can do that!' Later, I picked up a triathlon magazine and saw an article about an Ironman triathlon in Hawaii, which is one of the most famous races. If you've competed in Hawaii, it's like competing in the World Cup.

I first competed in a triathlon in 2002 at Clumber Park. It was very hard and I got an ear infection after the swim.

This is my very first Ironman in Switzerland. Some days I am really excited. Some days I am apprehensive and wonder whether I'll do the distance. But I'm looking forward to it. I'm asking people to sponsor me and the money I raise will be split two ways - half will go towards activities in Byron Wood School where I work and the rest is for Nomad. They work really hard to help those in most need.

How long have you been training?

I have been training since September 2009 for the Ironman but I continuously train throughout the year, with a few weeks off for the usual holidays.

What motivates you?

I'm self-motivated but the Ironman is something I've always wanted to do, just to see that I can actually do it. The other thing is that I've booked and paid for it, so I can't back out now, can I? I'm also motivated by the thought that life will be easier afterwards. It's been hard juggling friends, family and training and remaining fresh for work.

What time do you hope to do it in?

I hope to complete it in 12-14 hours. Some people have said I could do it in a shorter time but I'm keeping my feet firmly on the ground. It's a long day of racing - I could have a bike crash; it could be 40°C. There are so many things that could go wrong but I feel I am just about fit enough to do it. If I don't make it, it will be for something I can't control.

So what's next after this?

I don't know, as I've never done this before. I couldn't do it every year as it's a huge time commitment, not just for me but my family and my girlfriend. She puts up with a lot - when I spend all Saturday cycling and not being able to go out for the day, she listens to me fret about the race, especially now it's getting so close. I do love this sport, though. It's a good way of life and it makes me happy.

I think I will race shorter distances and maybe do a half-Ironman next year or try for European or world age groups. But again, it's a big commitment if you're working 40-50 hours a week and have to fit in training around work.