A TREGARON mechanic is in training for an endurance challenge he knows will push him to his utmost limits - as well as raising money for cancer research.

Toby Hellman, an ex-smoker who suffers from asthma, will be tackling The Brutal Double Iron Distance Triathlon in Snowdonia on 10 September.

This consists of a 4.8-mile swim, a 231.92-mile bike ride and 51.1-mile run, including an ascent and descent of Snowdon - all to be completed within 42 hours!

“Like most people I have family and friends who have been affected by cancer,” Toby, 49, told the Cambrian News.

“I’m not a doctor or nurse; I cannot cure cancer but I can donate my time doing what I can to help raise money for and awareness of Cancer Research Wales.

“I have competed in the Brutal triathlons for four years, doing three half-distance and one full-distance, so it is time to step up and do the Double Brutal.

“I am an ex-smoker, suffer from asthma and have had an operation on my back, but this does not stop me from doing these things and pushing the limits."

Toby has a Facebook page www.facebook.com/brutal288m as well as local sponsors: Rhiannon’s Gold Centre, Tregaron; Lampeter and District Dog Trainin; E&M Motor Factors, John Morgan Auto parts and J Jenkins and Sons.

Contact Toby at [email protected] or on 07972 776448 for further information.

See this week’s south editions for the full story, in shops and online tomorrow