As Head of PE, Mr C Brickwood is known for encouraging his students to push themselves to the max in the pursuit of sporting victory.
And he proved he’s just as happy to push himself to the limit after completing the gruelling Ironman UK challenge in Bolton.
He was among 2,000 athletes from across the world who swam, cycled and ran their way to the title of Ironman, covering a distance of 123.6 miles.
Mr Brickwood said: “My day started at 3.50am. There was no need for an alarm as I hardly slept a wink. A light breakfast followed, then off to Pennington Flash Lake where the race started with a 2.4-mile swim.
“The race kicked off at 6am in a very warm lake, which was 23 degrees and smelt like fermented cheese! The swim was a little slower than I'd have liked but I finished in 1hr 29mins.”
The swim was followed by a 96-mile bike ride, which he completed in 6hrs 5mins.
Mr Brickwood said: “It was a tough, hilly route in the blazing sun. The heat took its toll but the crowds lined the streets and cheered everyone on.
“At points on the bike it felt like being part of the Tour De France!
“Coming off the bike I felt good, my body felt strong and the final stage, the run, started off well.
“The run consisted of four 10k loops in and out of Bolton town centre, which was a hilly little course with more spectators lining the streets.
“At around 23k my knee gave way and my right leg started to cramp up.
“My target of 12hrs was out of the window and I physically and psychologically hit the wall. I had to hobble the final 21k with support from my family I got through to the end in a time of 13hrs 35mins.
“I’m really pleased that I finished but I want to do better next time.”
