We are undertaking our biggest challenge to date: the Patagonman Extreme Triathlon. Why, you ask, would we spend months training, organising and preparing for one of the most gruelling and exclusive triathlon’s in the world? To raise awareness of Men’s mental health and wellbeing and the phenomenal work of a trio of charities that are changing lives across Europe: Mercy UK, Mercy Isle of Man and Mercy Beyond in Europe.

Martyn’s Story

This is a very personal challenge for Martyn. Over the last decade, running and extreme sports has played a vital role in his mental health and wellbeing. In June Martyn participated in the Mercy 24-hour Men’s Mental Health Talkathon Challenge where he shared how sport has been a key part of his mental health and wellbeing. As an experienced triathlete at various distances, Martyn is to take on his toughest challenge yet that will push him to his limits, to raise awareness of men's mental health, and to show how faith is and has been a fundamental part of his own journey, a strength that has seen him through many personal battles, and how sharing the journey, the experience and the struggle can see breakthrough achieved and purpose reinforced.

What is Patagonman?

Patagonman is an extreme ironman distance triathlon set in one of the most breathtaking natural settings in the world, Patagonia in Chile. It starts with a 3.8km swim in the freezing waters of Aysen Fjord, a 180km cycle through Carretera Austral and then a 42.2km run through canyons, alongside waterfalls to General Carrera Lake. This point-to-point race is self-supported, which is where Helen comes in, and finishes with them running together for the last 12km to ring the bell at the finish line. Which means a challenge for Helen to get running the distance too!

Challenges aren’t meant to be faced alone

This is a journey that celebrates what can be achieved together, how we need others to get us both to the start line and to the finish, to help us when the going gets tough and to cheer us on. When life's struggles hit, it is never good to be alone, and the race begins now with the training, the focus, and the determination to cross the finish line strong.

Why Mercy?

Mercy's work is primarily to do the same through assisting men and women of all ages in navigating the terrain of life through their 16-week Freedom Journey Programme, Keys to Freedom Course and support services. Our fundraising will be split three ways to see Mercy's work developed in the UK, to Mercy Isle of Man locally, where we live and for the new and exciting opportunities within Europe through Mercy Beyond. Your support will be such an encouragement.

‘And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.’ Hebrews 12:1-2