GMP officer completes gruelling Ironman for cancer charity

A Greater Manchester Police officer survived being knocked off his bike to complete an Ironman at the weekend.

Superintendent John Haywood, who works in GMP’s Change Branch, took part in Ironman UK in Bolton, completing the event in just over 13 hours on Sunday and raising more than £2,500 for Move Against Cancer.

A full Ironman event involves a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and running a full marathon.

Supt Haywood, 49, was diagnosed with cancer four years ago and is now remission.

He said: “I wanted to run a marathon but a lot of people do that and wanted a bigger challenge to raise as much money as possible.

“I have done a sprint triathlon but nothing really prepares you for a full Ironman.

"Obviously, I did a lot of training and I am a strong cyclist but had never done all three legs together before the weekend – it’s a bit like a jigsaw and you hope it comes together on the day.

“The bike ride in Bolton is one of the toughest and hilliest cycling legs in the UK series – it was made tougher by the wind and being knocked off my bike.

“I was about 45 miles in and cycling through Bolton town centre, which was coned off, and a car came straight through and collided with me.

“Fortunately, I wasn’t too seriously injured, just a few bumps and bruises, and was determined to carry on and complete the event.

“My bike took most of the impact but luckily I carry a multi-tool and was able to straighten out the handlebars.” 

Supt Haywood, from Bury, set up GMPs Cancer Support Network after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and a sarcoma in his ankle in 2019.

He cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats last year, raising over £4,000 for Move Against Cancer from the two events.

Supt Haywood said: “Following my diagnosis, I was told I may not be able to run again.

“This motivated me to push myself and the fundraising I take part in is all the more special as I never thought I would have been able to take part. 

“I only took up cycling in 2020 - I am a huge advocate for the importance of exercise and that’s why I felt a specific association with raising money for Move Against Cancer.

“There's increasing evidence that moving more during and after cancer treatment can significantly improve physical and mental wellbeing.

“I want to say a huge thanks to all those who supported my cause. This will make a difference for people."