65-year-old Martin McKenna has been selected to represent Great Britain in the European Triathlon Championships in Austria, later this year.

Martin, who runs Wyefit with his son-in-law Jack, will compete in the ETU Middle Distance Triathlon European Championships in Walchsee-Kaiserwinkl, on September 4th 2016. Matin will compete in the Age Group category. Overall, more than 2,000 athletes are expected in Walchsee.

Martin is no novice to endurance challenges, and he has competed in 20 Marathons and eight full-distance Iron Man triathalons.

Surprisingly, Martin has not been always been a fitness fanatic. He told the Ross Gazette that when he was in his late 50s, he had bad back problems, and was overweight. He started getting fit, and set himself bucket list challenges, which is where the marathons and triathlons came in. “You’re never to old to start,” Martin said. “Anyone can do it, you just have got to want to do it.”

This year, the triathlon will be held in Walchsee-Kaiserwinkl. This is situated in one of the most scenic places in the Austrian Tyrol, with spectacular mountain views and a crystal clear lake; so Martin can look forward to a rather spectacular backdrop for the challenge.

The swim is in Lake Walchsee which is 1.9km long, and the water is so clear you can drink it. The 90km bike course leads two loops (each 45km) through the beautiful region of Kaiserwinkl, with stunning mountain views. Altogether, the 90km cycle loop covers 1,100m of altitude difference.

The run is much flatter, although there are still a few hills to keep things interesting. The 21km course heads four laps around the lake, along the promenade, past farmhouses with colourful window boxes, and through alpine meadows - and all the while, the competitiors will always have a stunning view of the Kaiser Massif and Lake Walchsee.

The finish line is situated in the heart of Walchsee, with another amazing view of the lake and the Kaiser Massif. An enthusiastic crowd will be there to celebrate the athletes crossing the finish line.

Matrin told the Gazette that he is enjoying training. He said that occasionally he will have to push himself to get motivated, especially as the weather has been so bad recently, but he finds these are the most rewarding work-out sessions.

Martin’s team manager will be Brent Perkins. In the lead up to the triathlon, Martin will be sent team updates via email, about both the ETU and the challenge team.