Maltese Ironman faces triple challenge

If the thought of running a marathon gives you the jitters, spare a thought for Razzett tal-Ħbiberija chief executive Nathan Farrugia.

In 2009, the former national team basketball player will attempt to run the Malta half-marathon (21 km) in February, the London Marathon (42 km) in April, and then take on Austria's punishing Ironman race in July. Renowned for being one of the toughest events in the world, the Ironman race consists of a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km cycle and a full marathon.

Mr Farrugia hopes that the gruelling triple challenge will not only increase awareness of Razzett tal-Ħbiberija's 20 years of work, but also raise funds for its proposed integrated sports academy that aims to train youngsters for the 2012 London Paralympics.

Founded in 1989, Razzett is a non-profit charitable organisation that offers an array of recreational and therapeutic services to persons with a disability free of charge.

Mr Farrugia has already registered for the London Marathon and Ironman race, paying a non-refundable deposit of €500 for each event to guarantee his place.

He is taking things very seriously and aims to train for 15 hours per week initially, rising to 20 hours per week in the months immediately preceding the Ironman race. He is using a variety of literature, a testing lab in the UK and local coaches and athletes to ensure he trains properly.

Although he aims to be in peak physical condition for the triple challenge, Mr Farrugia is under no illusions about the need to be mentally prepared.

"Your training will wear out before the finish and it's your mental ability that will get you to the finish line on legs that should have stopped working miles before the end," he said.

Ideally, Mr Farrugia would like to complete the Malta half-marathon in 90 minutes, the London Marathon in three hours and 40 minutes, and the Ironman race in less than 13 hours. However, he is not constrained by these targets and accepts that he might have to conserve energy in the London Marathon to prepare properly for the Ironman race.

Mr Farrugia is aiming to raise €20,000 in donations for the charity through his efforts. As well as looking for donations from businesses, friends, family and colleagues, Mr Farrugia said that donations from the public are crucial in helping him to reach his target and "make this madness worthwhile".

To make a donation, text 'Ironman' to 5061 8926 or send a cheque to the Razzett tal-Ħbiberija. For more information on the triple challenge, visit www.nathanseverest.moonfruit.com, and visit www.razzett.org for more information on the charity.