Who's that man?

WHO'S THAT MAN?

That was the question many people were asking when the Manchester Tri Club vest was spotted on the start line at the North Wales cross-country championships in Corwen last January and then at the North Wales 10 in Wrexham.

 The answer was Paul Hawkins - and he surprised many by finishing eighth in Corwen and sixth in Wrexham.

 Last week Paul, who hails from Chirk, was the first Welshman home in the Tenby Ironman Tri, finishing 11th overall in 9-23.25.

 After leaving school Paul joined the Royal Marine Commandos but left the army in 2005, going on to qualify as a personal trainer. In January this year he gave it up to become a professional triathlete and has chalked up quite a few successes.

 He is renowned for his relentless training, which is where his Commando background come in useful.

 In fact his motto is: "Pain is a sensation; sensations are there to be enjoyed". Need one say more?

20.9.12