I met Chris Bygate at Durham University but probably got to know him more afterwards. We shared some fantastic climbing weekends, skiing holidays and plenty of random get togethers involving a little inebriation and a lot of malcoordinated dancing.

Last year Chris did an Iron Man Triathlon. When he told me what it was, I couldn't really get my head round it: a 2.4 mile swim, then a 112 mile cycle and the cherry-on-the-top- marathon at the end of it. I commute from Gateshead to Middlesbrough for work every day. It's 40 miles each way and takes a total of 2 to 2.5 hours. I do it in the car, sitting on my comfortable behind. That day Chris covered my morning journey over 3.5 times under his own steam and therefore truly deserved his Iron Man title!

Chris tragically died in October last year whilst on holiday in the Lake District. The Great North Air Ambulance gave him the best chance of survival and provided invaluable support to his fiancee. I work at James Cook University Hospital where Chris was taken, and I often see the helicopters land right outside. I now understand what a valuable and vital service it is.

Chris lived life to the full. He achieved so much in his life and always had a smile on his face. He has inspired a total of 31 people (Team Bygate) to take part in the Outlaw Half Iron Man triathlon in Nottingam on 2nd June this year. This is a huge challenge and few of us have attempted anything like this before. We've been training hard and helping each other through some tough (and very cold) sessions- your much appreciated support will help us cross the finish line in a fitting tribute to a much loved friend.

Thanks,

Ben

P.S. Aluminium has half the atomic number of Iron...hence the page name.... GEEK ALERT!