When Michael Kimpton retired in Airlie Beach in 2017, he decided to take up running, cycling and swimming. Five years on, he's competing in triathlon and ironman events around the world to raise funds for charity!
The 68-year-old, who is also the President of the Whitsunday Triathlon Club, has recently competed at the World Championship Ironman in Kona, Hawaii, completing a 3.8km ocean swim, a 180km cycle across the lava fields, and 42km marathon in heat and humidity.
Following the Championship, he also competed at the World Championship Half Ironman in St George, Utah, USA, representing Australia at both events and raising funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
"This has been a dream come true, and to do it supporting PCFA gives me the motivation to push as hard as I can," he said.
"I know people personally who have been impacted by the disease, so this is my way of showing support and giving back."
For Mr Kimpton, competing at the highest level in sport is an achievement he once thought was completely out of reach.
At 23-years-old he survived a near-fatal motorbike accident, leaving him paralysed and unable to walk for 18 months.
"It took intensive rehabilitation and a lot of luck to get me back on my feet in a compromised fashion," he said.
Fast-forward to last year, Michael entered the Cairns Ironman and ended up on the podium, meaning he qualified for the World Championship events.
"Competing in an ironman is the ultimate test in prolonged physical and mental endurance - it's been one of the toughest things I've ever done, but it's incredibly rewarding," he said.
"If a one and a half legged 68-year-old can reach the pinnacle of the sport of triathlon, anything is possible in this world.
"I'm so grateful for the support of my wife Val, my children and grandchildren, and everyone who has donated to the cause. It keeps me motivated every single day."
To support Michael's fundraising efforts, donate at: fundraise.pcfa.org.au/fundraisers/michaelkimpton
PCFA CEO Anne Savage congratulated Michael on his incredible efforts.
"Michael is an inspiration to us all and we are so thankful for his ongoing support," Ms Savage said.
"Community fundraising enables us to invest in lifesaving research, advocacy and support that will help improve the lives of the 24,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year.
"In addition, we've expanded our Specialist Nursing Service to include over 100 nurses nationwide, and in June, we launched Australia's first Prostate Cancer Counselling service.
"Fundraising saves lives and we can't thank our supporters enough for their contribution to cancer control in Australia."
To become a PCFA fundraiser, Australians can register at fundraise.pcfa.org.au
