“What a mad moment this is!!” Spencer Matthews completes epic triathlon challenge in Antarctica and breaks two World Records

You won’t find many training plans for a challenge like this. Former Made In Chelsea star and endurance athlete Spencer Matthews has completed seven iron-distance triathlons on seven continents, in 21 days, 9 hours and 18 minutes.

The challenge was devised to raise money for James’ Place, a charity which works to prevent male suicide. The triathlons took place in London, Arizona, Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Rio De Janeiro and Antarctica. Each one was the Ironman distance of a 3.8km swim, a 180.2km bike ride and a full marathon – 42.2km – run.

At times the events were brutally hard with Matthews admitting he found the gruelling schedule crushingly difficult. The final triathlon in Antarctia was hanging over him as well. Undoubtedly the toughest and a challenge few have achieved before.

Completing in Antarctica

Matthews posted on Instgram to announce the triathlon in Antarctica – and the challenge – were completed. In the post he said:

“AFTER A 28 HOUR 51 MINUTE WAR WITH ANTARCTICA, I’M DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE JOB IS DONE…. I DID IT, PROJECT SE7EN IS COMPLETE!!! WHAT A MAD MOMENT THIS IS!!”

As well as the completion and the money raised for charity, Matthews has also achieved two new Guinness World Records. One for the fastest 140.6-mile triathlon on Antarctica (28 hours 51 minutes 11 seconds) and one for the fastest time to complete a 140.6-mile triathlon on seven continents (21 days 9 hours 18 minutes).

Continuing on Instagram, he stated that: “PROJECT SE7EN pushed me to the extent of my limits and back and I’ll always remember it for the astounding journey that it’s been. In the last 21 days I’ve raced in London, Arizona, Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Rio De Janeiro and Antarctica.

“We did all this to raise funds and awareness for @Jamesplaceuk, a phenomenal male suicide prevention charity in the UK. Thanks so much for all of your support and donations throughout the course of this challenge. Honestly it means the world.”

Images: Stone Visuals UK

Helen Webster Editor, 220 Triathlon

About

Helen has been 220's Editor since July 2013, when she made the switch from marathons to multisport. She's usually found open-water swimming and has competed in several swimruns as well as the ÖtillÖ World Series. Helen is a qualified Level 2 Open-Water Swim Coach focusing on open-water confidence and runs regular workshops at the South West Maritime Academy near Bristol. She is also an RLSS UK Open Water Lifeguard trainer/assessor.