Cookstown MS sufferer completes gruelling Ironman challenge

A former Cooktown business man, who suffers from MS, has just completed a gruelling Ironman challenge, completing a run of six challenges in 20 weeks.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Sep 2015, 11:42 BST

Conor Devine, Principal at GDP Partnership, originally from Cookstown, Co Tyrone, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2007.

He struggled badly for a few years with the condition but since 2010 he has worked hard to try and manage his illness and is now regularly taking part in marathons, triathlons and other adventures to help control his illness in addition to raising awareness about Multiple Sclerosis around the world.

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For his latest challenge, Conor took on a full Ironman course, comprising of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile cycle race and a full 26.2 mile marathon, all in aid of the MS Society.

Having already completed two marathons, two triathlons, and a half Ironman Conor said he was determined to complete the full challenge.

Conor said his illness and sharing his experiences with other sufferers helps him take on the big challenges.

He added: “It has a huge effect on other people and I found that out. It’s amazing that the impact of of even sharing with people can have, it gives them so much hope.

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“Things like this is very empowering for me, that’s a big reason why I do things like this.

“I’ve had great support from everyone, I had asked the business community to help me out and I’ve had a really great response from them, I’m very grateful.”