A Staffordshire man who was suicidal as a result of his drug and alcohol use is now set to attempt a World Record breaking 70 triathlons in 70 days to mark his recovery, and help raise money for Humankind in the process.
The challenge is the culmination of months of training by Andy Stone, 40, from Eccleshall, who previously used drugs and drank heavily for 15 years.
Starting on April 4, Stone will attempt to complete 70.3-mile triathlons on 70 consecutive days and set a World Record that no-one has achieved before.
Since he stopped using substances more than six-and-a-half years ago, Stone has undertaken 17 sprint triathlons and 35 Olympic triathlons distance but his ’70 in 70’ will be his greatest challenge yet.
Speaking about his incredible World Record attempt and recovery from substance use, Stone said: Becoming sober is one of my proudest achievements, I realised I had an addiction to alcohol and was determined to turn my life around. Completing 70 consecutive triathlons is going to be a huge physical and mental challenge but the self-development I went through when becoming sober will help as it taught me patience, acceptance and gratitude.”
Stone is using the challenge as an opportunity to raise funds for causes close to his heart including Staffordshire Treatment and Recovery Service (STARS), a drug and alcohol support service run by Humankind that helps approximately 2,000 people at any one time.
Paul Townsley, CEO of Humankind said: “We are in awe of the incredible challenge that Andy’s has undertaken and we are extremely grateful that he has chosen to raise money for STARS.
“Andy is a fantastic example that it is possible to recover from substance use, achieve new goals, and live a healthier and happier life. Everyone at Humankind will be cheering him on as he goes for the World Record.”
Prior to stopping using drugs and alcohol, Stone was drinking up to 12 pints a night, using cocaine and struggling with his mental health. With the support of his parents, friends and Alcoholics Anonymous, Stone gave up alcohol and drugs and switched to a healthy lifestyle including a plant-based diet and competing in Iron Mans.
Stone will complete his triathlons at different locations in Staffordshire, culminating on June 12 with the Ironman 70.3 that ends in Stafford’s Market Square.
In addition to supporting Staffordshire Treatment and Recovery Service, Stone is also raising money for Mind and Alcohol Change UK.
To sponsor Stone, click here and visit his JustGiving page.
To find out more about the challenge and how training is going, check out his Facebook or Instagram pages.
