An inspiring Colney Heath athlete is aiming to become the first person to complete a full-distance Ironman challenge while wearing a 15kg weighted vest.
Isaac Kenyon, who is now based in Devon, will take part in the challenge on Sunday, September 10.
An Ironman consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle ride and a marathon 26.22-mile run.
The 29-year-old will wear the vest throughout the Ironman in North Devon, as a symbol for the weight of mental health burdens.
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Isaac said: "Wearing a 15kg weighted vest during the Ironman isn't just about conquering a physical challenge; it's a powerful metaphor for the burdens of mental health struggles.
"With every step, I carry the weight of those who battle anxiety, depression, and thoughts of despair.
"This journey isn't just mine - it's a shared testament of resilience, empathy, and the hope that through open conversations, we can alleviate the hidden weights many carry.
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"By embracing this symbolic challenge, I'm dedicated to shedding light on mental health causes, inspiring understanding, and proving that together, we can overcome even the heaviest of burdens."
Isaac's record attempt aligns with World Suicide Prevention Day, and the athlete aims to increase awareness about suicide, foster mental health understanding, and provide support to individuals facing suicidal thoughts.
He continued: "I believe mental fitness to be a form of training, much like physical fitness, which can help everyday people to become more resilient and develop tools and coping strategies to deal with difficult periods of mental health.
"Awareness around this subject can help reduce the stigma around mental health."
A short documentary named Weighed Down is being produced about Isaac's challenge.
This film will be released later this year, but a trailer has already been released.
Isaac is also raising funds for Mind in Mid Herts, a charity committed to preventing poor mental health.
So far, he has raised £70 of his £1,000 target.
Donations can be made via Isaac's GoFundMe page '1st 15kg weighted Ironman for Mental Health'.
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