Royal Marines chef Mike Beaton has entered the annals of sporting history after becoming Britain’s first servicemen to complete one of the world’s toughest races.

Just 40 athletes felt they were up to the challenge of the Double Ironman triathlon swim, bike and road race in the USA.

The surroundings of Lake Virginia provided the scenic backdrop for the punishing race – a 4.8-mile swim, 224-mile bike ride and a double marathon of 52.4 miles.

Competitors are expected to finish within 36 hours, but the sergeant from Lympstone crossed the line in 28 hours and 55 minutes, claiming third place.

Mike, who runs the Green Berets’ chefs display team based at the Commando Training Centre (CTC), has run in ironman events before, but felt the ‘double’ would prove the ultimate personal and physical challenge.

The veteran Royal was in first position after climbing out of the lake, but the cycle ride proved to be punishing.

“I’ve never cycled more than 80 miles, so there were points when I thought: ‘I’ll never see the end.’ But you get over that,” Mike explained.

“At times you’re running along, falling over yourself. For the last 10 miles of the marathon I was just stumbling along. I managed to get a grip of myself.

“Sixty per cent is down to training, 20 per cent is mental state and 20 per cent is luck.”
Any time under 30 hours is highly regarded in this field of endurance sport.

“I’m living on a high at the moment. There are only about five people in the country who have completed the Double Ironman,” the chef added.

“For me winning wasn’t important. Finishing was. Would I do it again? No. I’ve had some great trips with my sport. Now it’s time to give something back.”

When not straining muscles, the sergeant can be found promoting the chefs’ branch of the RN and RM with the touring team both inside and outside the service.

Mike is looking to coach other endurance athletes in the RN and RM and encourage those who fancy following in his ironman wake. He can be contacted on 01392 414273.