Two North East dentists have completed a full-distance Ironman challenge in Copenhagen, raising £1,743.
Kathryn Eccles and Jamie Dury, who work at Union Quay Dental on North Shields Fish Quay, took part in the gruelling event in support of The Percy Hedley Foundation, which helps children, young people, and adults with disabilities across the North East.
The Copenhagen Ironman took place on Sunday, August 16, and involved a 3.8km swim, a 180km cycle, and a 42.2km marathon - all in a single day.
Ms Eccles said: "It's difficult to put into words how it feels to have actually completed a full Ironman."
(Image: Provided)
"There were moments during the day when it felt incredibly tough, but crossing that finish line made every early morning, every long training session and every tired leg completely worth it.
"Knowing we were doing this for Percy Hedley gave us an extra reason to keep going when things got difficult.
"We're incredibly grateful to everyone who donated and supported us throughout the journey."
Mr Dury finished the course in 11 hours, 40 minutes, and 54 seconds, while Ms Eccles completed it in 12 hours, 28 minutes, and 50 seconds.
Both had previously completed Half Ironman events, but this was their first time taking on the full distance.
Mr Dury said: "A full Ironman is every bit as tough as you imagine it will be - and probably a little tougher.
"But finishing in 11 hours, 40 minutes is an incredible feeling.
"The training has been a huge commitment, but being able to do it alongside Kathryn and raise £1,683 for The Percy Hedley Foundation has made the whole experience even more worthwhile.
"There were definitely some tough moments out on the course, but once you see that finish line, all you can think about is getting across it.
"We're absolutely delighted to have done it."
(Image: Provided)
The dentists’ efforts have raised £1,743 so far for The Percy Hedley Foundation, which has praised the pair for their achievement.
Donations can still be made via Kathryn and Jamie's fundraising page, with all proceeds going towards supporting The Percy Hedley Foundation’s work in the region.
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Bev Reid, corporate relationships manager at The Percy Hedley Foundation, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be collaborating with Union Quay Dental.
"Kathryn and Jamie have shown incredible determination in taking on such a demanding challenge, and their fundraising will help us continue to provide vital services to people with disabilities across the North East.
"We'd like to congratulate them both on an amazing achievement and thank everyone who has supported their fundraising."