LAUNCESTON man Matt Luxton is an Ironman — having completed arguably the hardest contest a triathlete can take on.

Held in Barcelona, the event saw Matt, owner of Functionally Aware Fitness Personal Training, take on a 2.4 mile sea swim; 112 miles of cycling; and finally, a 26.2 mile run. Over 200 others swimmers battled for position with Matt throughout the opening stage, with everyone in his age group determined to make good time ahead of the bike section.

It takes around five minutes for competitors to exit the water, change into their bike clothes and set off once again. Despite the lengthy distance Matt would have to cover, he remained in good spirits throughout.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.