Here at Esendex we’re strong believers in testing our limits to become the best we can be, both in and out of the office. One inspiring person who has successfully done this, showing both passion and integrity while doing it, is none other than our Corporate Development Director, Paul Burton.
As part of the Black Line London team of friends and inspired amateur athletes, Paul set off to Kailua-Kona, Hawai’i to take on one of the world’s toughest triathlons, the Ironman World Championship last month.
The annual triathlon, which took place on October 10 2015, combines a 2.4-mile open water swim, 112 miles on the bike and a full 26.2 mile marathon – all non-stop – into one event, with the added challenge of temperatures approaching 40 degrees celsius.
Focusing on only the most dedicated athletes, the vast majority of whom have qualified for the World Championship by finishing at the top of their categories at one of 40 Ironman races around the globe earlier in the year, Paul was one of 2,300 athletes on the start line.
Are you crazy we asked? Surely there are easier ways to see Hawai’i?
His simple answer “no!” Paul went on to finish in 9 hours 34 minutes, placing 123rd overall including the professional athletes. And 23rd in his male 30-34 age group, showing an inspiration to the entire Esendex team and is a great advocate to our staff for the commitment, dedication and desire he has shown.
He said: “Qualifying for the Hawai’i Ironman has been a goal of mine for years, and having finally qualified this year at South Africa to then go and perform really well in Hawai’i was a dream come true.”
“It’s not always easy balancing work and sport commitments, but it really helps that I enjoy both so much and that I have the support of my colleagues at Esendex, many of whom share a passion for endurance sports.”
Well done Paul! All that’s left to ask is when’s the next challenge?
“I’m completely addicted to Ironman, so the end of season break won’t last too long as the next race will be in Austria next summer, and with any luck I’ll be going back to Hawai’i again.”
