Tough challenge for company chief in first Iron Man race

The 43-year-old is competing in this month's Challenge Roth, an Iron Man triathlon, to raise money for Depression Alliance, a national charity that offers information and support to those who suffer with depression.

Mr Boote, chief executive of Wakefield-based design agency Core Design, has never competed in an Iron Man competition. Nor has he completed a marathon, which forms part of the three-stage event that begins with a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike race and culminates in a 26.2 mile run.

He said that losing his close friend, Ian Gaughan, to depression two years ago had inspired him to raise money for Depression Alliance.

"I believe Ian's life could have been saved had he been given the counselling he needed. By supporting Depression Alliance, I hope to raise awareness that there is support available to those who are battling depression, so the tragic loss experienced by his family and friends doesn't have to happen to anyone else and so that those who need help can talk to someone rather than rely on the effects of medication."

In preparation for the event, he has taken to a strict regime of exercise and regularly rides between 50 and 100 miles, but admits the biggest challenge he faces is keeping his mind focused for 15 hours – his personal target in which to finish the race.

Once the triathlon is completed, he has further aspirations.

"There are a few ideas going around, which may include a climb up Kilimanjaro but I think I'm most likely to attempt the Chinese Iron Man competition, which is supposed to be the most difficult of all the Iron Men competitions, as it has a drop-out rate of around 50 per cent due to the extreme heat."

In the next month, he aims to raise 1,000 for Depression Alliance and hopes that his efforts will encourage further contributions to a cause that affects one in five people in Britain.

Some 2,500 individual starters and 500 relay teams from 50 nations are taking part in this year's Challenge Roth.

Contact him on 01924 333320 or visit www.justgiving.com/Paul-Boote