Adam Bradley

Iron Man Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 “Slaying the dragon” 🐉

On Sunday 13th of September; I’ll be standing on the beach at Tenby, about to take on one of the toughest endurance events in the world — Ironman Wales.

That’s a total;

• 2.4-mile swim in the sea
• 112-mile bike ride through the Pembrokeshire hills
• 26.2-mile hilly marathon to finish

All in one day.

Ironman Wales is widely known as one of the hardest Ironman races globally, with relentless climbs, unpredictable weather, and an atmosphere like no other. It’s a huge physical and mental challenge — and one I’ve chosen to take on for a reason.

Why I’m Doing This

This challenge isn’t just about personal achievement. I’m using Ironman Wales as an opportunity to raise money for a cause that really matters to me: SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) is the UK’s oldest armed forces charity, founded in 1885. It supports people who have served in the British Armed Forces, as well as their families.

SSAFA offers practical, emotional, and financial support. Helping those who find themselves in a world so far away from what they have become used to. With very little emphasis on exit strategy’s from these types of service this charity makes a huge difference to those who need the extra support. 

I’ve seen first hand through friends who’ve benefited from using this service.

• SSAFA is well-respected, works closely with the MOD, NHS, and other military charities, and is part of the Forces in Mind Trust network.
• They are known for thorough casework, ensuring support is appropriate and sustainable.
• Strong governance and transparency compared to many charities.

The Journey So Far

Training for an Ironman is a serious commitment. Early mornings, late nights, long weekends, sore legs, and more laundry than I ever thought possible have become the norm. There are days when motivation is high, and days when simply turning up is the biggest win.

But every swim, ride, and run reminds me why I’m doing this — and how lucky I am to be able to take on a challenge like this.

Why Your Support Matters

Every donation, no matter the size, helps:

• Support families, fund research and provide care and support. 
• Make a real difference to people who need it most
• Keep me motivated through the toughest training days

If you’re able to donate, share, or simply cheer me on, it genuinely means the world to me.

Race Day

On race day, when things get tough — and they will — I’ll be thinking of the people I’m racing for, the generosity of everyone who’s supported me, and the belief that together we can make a difference.

Thank you for reading, thank you for your support, and thank you for being part of this journey.

Let’s do this 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 🏊 🚴 🏃 🐉