Iraq war veteran Mark Clougherty set for handbike world record bid

Mark Clougherty from Lisburn, who sometimes has to walk with the aid of crutches, will attempt to set a world record for the fastest journey across Ireland on a handbike.

The former Royal Military policeman will make the journey of almost 600km from Mizen Head in Co Cork to Malin Head, Co Donegal in under four days.

Mark sets off on his world record bid next Tuesday, aiming to raise at least £2,000 for four charities close to his heart, that he credits with saving his life – Help for Heroes, Cancer Research UK, Shrapnel and SPORTS – a local mental health charity.

Mark said: “Without these charities, I would not be making the starting line of this challenge.

“It is extremely important to me and my recovery journey and is a great way to prove to others going through similar difficulties that no matter how bad things can be, sport can be a great tool in moving forward.”

The veteran has been battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for 17 years, ever since a near death experience in the Iraq war in 2003.

The keen footballer was not diagnosed until six years later, after suffering a bad leg fracture while playing in the Irish League with Moyola FC, a club he now coaches.

Mark was told at his consultation he had been suffering from a second underlying case of PTSD since 2005, when he was treated for testicular cancer.

He said: “Since 2010, when I was diagnosed, I have been dealing with the issues of PTSD.

“The lapses in my mood and behaviour not only affect me but also my family. I have done sport all my days and it was the one thing I knew could help me.

“It gives me a focus every day, short and long-term goals going forward for the future, as well as introducing me to new activities and the physical benefits have helped with my mental health.”

Mark was selected to compete in the Invictus Games this summer, which have now been postponed until 2021.

For the handbike challenge he hopes to do an average of 200km a day, sleeping in a caravan at night.

He will be supported by wife Jennifer and fellow veterans Dave Snoddy and Dougie Durran – also members of Help for Heroes’ Band of Brothers network, alongside Mary Hunter, who will manage the ride and act as official for the World Ultra Cycling Association.

Anyone wishing to donate to Mark’s fundraiser can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/mark-clougherty