Doing it for Dad: Ironman Josh’s inspirational year

After losing his father, Paul to cancer in 2024, Josh channelled grief into determination. To mark what would have been his dad’s 60th birthday year, he set himself an extraordinary challenge in 2025: a series of marathons, triathlons and endurance cycling events, all building towards the ultimate test, the Leeds Ironman.

A place in an Ironman challenge is not top of everyone’s birthday list, but for 34-year-old Josh, the gift from wife Lucy became one of many extreme fitness challenges he undertook to raise funds for the Hospice where his father Paul received care.

”The Hospice not only gave Dad the best care but also cared for me and my family,” said Josh. “It’s one of the most calm, reassuring places I’ve ever been.”

His challenge began with the Isenhurst Indoor Olympic Triathlon in January. Training was fitted around his demanding job as a reinsurance underwriter, and family life.

“I’d be up at 5am for a 10-mile run while everyone was asleep,” said the father of two. “I had an indoor bike trainer for bad weather. It took a lot of determination.”

Completing the Brighton Marathon in April that year brought back memories of his father.

“Dad came to watch me do Brighton in 2013. Before the start he joked, ‘How long do you think you’ll be? I need to know how much money to put in the car park.’” After many events and training, Josh lined up for the Leeds Ironman in July, with Lucy and his children cheering him on.

“It’s easy to get into a dark hole but I’d written ‘For Dad’ on my hand. Every time I was struggling, I looked down at those words.”

Josh with wife Lucy and children at Leeds Ironman

“It’s tough when you hear the professional athletes are finishing, and you’ve still got a marathon to run! But the crowds were amazing, and my family kept me going.”

After 15 hours and three minutes, Josh crossed the finish line. “The atmosphere was electric; then you hear those words, ‘You are an Ironman!’ I know Dad would be proud.”

“Doing the challenge helped me emotionally,” said Josh, who raised more than £16,000 for the Hospice. “Dad was an amazing dad and grandad. I miss him every day. Everyone saw a better person in me from doing it.”

“I’d encourage everyone to sign up for a challenge to raise funds,” said Josh. “The support you get from the fundraising team is amazing.” If you are feeling inspired, check out our events or find one of your own and nominate the Hospice as your chosen charity.

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