From Triathlon to Ironman 70.3 - Samuel Hull levels up for DSAA

This July, 18 year old Samuel Hull from Ilminster, Somerset, will take on his next challenge for DSSA: the Ironman 70.3.

About the challenge: Ironman 70.3

Sam is no stranger to a challenge, or to supporting DSAA! Last year he took on the Langport Sprint Triathlon where he raised an amazing £917.79 for our life-saving charity.

This year he’s kicking it up a notch with his sights set on becoming an ironman. This gruelling endurance event combines a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run.

Why take on an Ironman 70.3?

We asked Sam what inspired him to keep challenging himself. He said:

“I find it difficult to be ever 'satisfied' with my performance. I have always enjoyed a challenge, whether physical or mental and after the Langport Triathlon I thought this would be a challenging next step. 

The IRONMAN 70.3 continues my motivation to be better and stronger in all I do.”

Training for an Ironman is small feat, and Sam has faced some setbacks along the way. Despite this, Sam has an inspiring positive outlook. He focuses not just on the resilience of the body, but also of the mind.

“Physically, training has been challenging, I developed a knee issue in February that put me off running for a very long time.”

But this didn’t hold him back, instead Sam channels his focus to the two other disciplines, as well as the mental challenge ahead.

“I have tried to gather information on how the event treats your mind. A strong mind is very important (even more important than any physical training towards the end of the race). Training my mind to endure uncomfortable and painful muscles and joints has been a challenge but will be worth it when I cross the finish line.”

Why Sam supports DSAA

For Sam, this isn’t only a physical achievement – it’s personal. He has always been interested in medicine and has experienced the impact of our service first-hand.

He says:

“Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance transferred my grandfather to hospital to receive treatment before the unfortunate end of his life. Their critical care team also helped a close family friend after they were involved in a serious road traffic collision. With their help, a pregnant mother was airlifted to hospital - both mother and child live to this day with no lasting injury or challenge in their lives.”

Take on your own fundraising challenge

Inspired by Sam? We are! If you would like to take on a challenge in aid of our charity, Sam has a message for you:

“Just do it! Learning about this charity and others like it will open doorways and allow you to appreciate their hard work. Knowing you're taking on a challenge to help others in need is a powerful motivator to keep going and work hard. ”

Every mission we fly costs around £3,500. With no direct government funding, every mission is funded by people like Sam. Without such support, our service would not exist. If you would like to support Sam, or get involved, find out more below.