Former soldier gets fit to take part in challenges

When Paul Thompson left the Army in 2009, he stopped exercising and began drinking heavily. Six years later and weighing 19 stone, he set himself the challenge of taking part in his first duathlon in 2015 to motivate himself to get fit again.

Paul said: “I realised that something needed to change, so I stopped drinking and started training. I lost six stone in 2015 and set myself the challenge of taking part in a duathlon – it really helped me to have a goal to focus on.”

Paul decided to take his training to the next level by doing nine fundraising challenges in 12 months in aid of Combat Stress.  

“Combat Stress is a cause that’s really close to my heart. I’m aware of people who have experienced mental health problems and received treatment at Combat Stress, it’s a great charity that doesn’t always receive the support it deserves.”

Starting with two duathlons in March 2018, Paul will take part in a third duathlon later in the year, as well as completing a 10k run, three cycling events and host a James Bond themed charity ball. He will finish in March 2019 sledding a team of Huskies 250kms across Norway and finishing up in Sweden.

“I’ve always wanted to try Husky sledging. From my days in the Army I love outdoor adventures and it would be great to get to see the northern lights. I’ve been cycling, swimming and doing boxercise to get ready and the other events I’m doing will help keep my fitness and training up too.

“I think my time in the Army will help as I’ve been on exercise in some really cold environments. It will be an incredible experience and I can’t wait to get started.”

To sponsor Paul please visit his JustGiving page. Tickets to the James Bond themed charity ball cost £50 and can be purchased here.