Mill End man to tackle triathlon in memory of grandfather (From Watford Observer)

'This is something he would be proud to see me doing'

2:29pm Thursday 6th September 2012 in News By Jessica Stocks

A man from Mill End is to tackle the Virgin London Triathlon later this month in memory of his late grandfather.

Dan Jones, 21, of St Peters Close, undertakes the triathlon, which consists of a 1,500 metre swim, 40km cycle and 10km run, on September 23.

Dan, who has lost nearly four stone while training this year, has chosen to support the British Heart Foundation as it is very close to his heart. In 2010, Mr Jones's grandad, John ‘Jet’ Jones, passed away due to a leaky heart valve.

He said: "My grandad was always really active and adventurous, so I'm sure this is something he would be proud to see me doing.

"I feel I have inherited his determination and am looking forward to the challenge. I wanted to challenge myself, get into shape and raise money for my grandad.”

John Jones, a motorcycle stunt rider in his youth, had a lot of common with his extreme sports loving grandson, which bought them closer together.

After training intensely six days a week for three months, Dan hopes to complete the triathlon in two and a half hours and get to his target of £1,000.

Urging people to donate, Mr Jones said: "People can really relate to the cause. The British Heart Foundation does a lot to help others." The BHF aims to make sure at least two thirds of people under 75 who suffer a heart attack live to tell the tale.

To sponsor Mr Jones visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Danthemanjones.